Transcendentalism In Henry David Thoreau

Transcendentalism In Henry David Thoreau
The Transcendentalism in Henry David Thoreau Henry David Thoreau once said, "It's not what you
look at that matters, it's what you see." Transcendentalists were often less concerned with what they
saw in front of them, and more concerned on what it meant. Transcendentalism is certainly about
forgetting the literal meaning of things and taking into account the divinity of them. Thoreau's
impression of this genre shows up regularly in his works. Henry David Thoreau's independence and
time with Emerson strengthened his as a transcendentalist as shown in Walden and "A Winter's
Walk."
Henry David Thoreau was a major figure in the transcendentalist movement. He was born in
Concord, Massachusetts on July 12, 1817 ("Henry David Thoreau" biography.co). Richard J.
Schneider's article, "Thoreau's Life" reveals that he went to public school in Concord, then attended
Concord Academy. Thoreau was somewhat different than other children in Concord. "As a child he
rarely followed the rules and was independent and strong–willed" (Brozo, et al. 377). Being
independent as a child shows up very clearly in Thoreau's adult life. Later Schneider states that
Thoreau went to Harvard College and graduated in the top of his class. However, he had to graduate
early because he was very ill and not financially able to continue. Thoreau worked at many places
throughout the years. He taught at a school, worked at his family's pencil factory, and opened a
school with his brother (Schneider). He even worked as a land surveyor (Witherell and Dubrulle).
Thoreau was friends with a great transcendentalist writer, Ralph Waldo Emerson. Thoreau spent two
years living at a place called Walden Pond, which was property of Emerson ("Henry David
Thoreau" biography.com). As stated in the biography, "Henry David Thoreau," "He experimented
with working as little as possible rather than engage in the pattern of six days on with one day off."
This may seem like a lazy way of living, but to Thoreau it was something more. "He felt that this
new approach helped him avoid the misery he saw around him" ("Henry David"). The hardship that
Thoreau was feeling from the world was the public. The public admired technology and did not
appreciate nature like he did. Henry
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Henry David Thoreau Summary
Thoreau from the beginning, showed how tight he was with his money and how much he valued
what he had even if it wasn't much. Throughout this paper he tells of his work he finds, the money
he makes and how wisely he spends it. He often thought that men who worked in the labor industry
were making a mistake, that they worked endlessly for so long they were basically machines. Henry
reaches out to his readers and lets them know that no matter how poor they start out that there's
always a light at the end of the tunnel as long as you're willing to work hard and spend your money
wisely.
Thoreau believed that public opinion was weak compared to or own private opinion. Also, that what
a man thinks of himself determined their own fate, and that one generation after the next abandons
what's been learned from the hard–working generation before. He started out doing simple outdoor
work like helping with snow storms, rain storms, watering of plants, all while minding his own
business. Thoreau made a decent allowance with these jobs but he sought out something more
stating "However, I have not set my heart on that." Henry David Thoreau, Economy, 11.
Henry then began observing his fellow community on their work ethic and their techniques and
decided he needed to start a business himself. His plan was to not live cheaply but not expensively
either and to invest in the native products there and face as few obstacles as possible to achieve the
maximum accomplishments. He believed acquiring

Henry David Thoreau Analysis
Henry David Thoreau, a nineteenth century writer, philosopher, and abolitionist, establishes himself
as an outsider, a passionate rebel against the status quo, in a passage from Walden. He writes to
explain why he went into the woods to live and left behind what most people would consider
civilization. Especially for an audience of contemporaries in the 1850s, before the Civil War, his
choice to live in the woods would have been outrageous – even revolutionary. Even today, his
choice to live in a small cabin in the woods would be considered counter to the status quo, so the
modern audience is also intrigued by his explanation. His language and method of presenting his
ideas create an argument between civilization and real life, and it is clear that he values real life in
the woods over what most people would consider civilization. He pits civilization against life
throughout, though he hides the reference to civilization behind a contrast to life in the words not
life, and he suggests that living in civilization would be a resignation. He counters this with many
references to life (nouns) and live and living (verbs), such as to live deliberately, facts of life, I had
not lived, wish to live, not life, living is so dear, live deep, marrow of life, to live so sturdily. The
paragraph is bursting with life references, and we immediately discern the urgency of his desire. We
learn the temperament of the man through this intensity. The contrast between life and not life is

Transcendentalism: Henry David Thoreau Essay
Henry David Thoreau was born on July 12, 1817 in Concord, Massachusetts. Thoreau grew up in
poverty; his dad was unsuccessful and had trouble maintaining a steady job. Thoreau followed in his
father's footsteps, ultimately bouncing from job to job, scorned by society for his unconventional
way of living and lack of income (Henry David Thoreau, Discovering Biography). Thoreau began to
write with the guidance of Ralph Waldo Emerson who became one of the most important influences
in his life. Living with Emerson gave Thoreau insight and inspiration on how to write, and
eventually led him to write Walden (Henry David Thoreau, Discovering Biography). Walden was
also inspired by Transcendentalism, a literary movement that challenged the use and ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
Walden's main themes and ideas embody the Transcendentalist literary movement. Thoreau proves
in Walden that although society may feel overbearing and laden with responsibilities, each person
may do whatever he or she pleases. It is society and its glorified version of material things that
makes people think that they always have to be one step ahead, when in reality it does not matter.
Thoreau wrote Walden to point out the irony that people are possessed by their possessions
(Swirski). Thoreau wanted to prove that a life led simply could be more fulfilling than a life led by
an obsession of material things. This idea of the simplicity of human nature was one of the main
ideas of Transcendentalism. Thoreau's work was heavily influenced by the Transcendentalist
movement due to his involvement with Emerson (Swirski).
Another theme of Walden is unity with God. Thoreau believed that God was unified with
philosophy, nature, and humanity, an idea that stemmed from the Transcendentalist movement. The
Transcendentalist movement was a religious movement characterized by the belief that religion was
what was inside of you, not what other people told you ("Thoreau, Henry David"). Thoreau was a
strong believer in what this movement stood for, and because of this, he immersed himself into
nature to discover religion and God inside of himself. Thoreau then wrote Walden to

Benjamin Franklin & Henry David Thoreau
Benjamin Franklin and Henry David Thoreau have been thought of as two powerful philosophers in
history. Both men were alive centuries ago, but their unique ways of life and ideas still exist in some
of history's most admirable figures. Each man had a judgment that went beyond the era they existed
in, but is still obvious in today's culture. Even though both men are credited for their wise principles,
their beliefs do not always coincide with one another. However, one thing they do have in common
is that they both revolutionized America through their thoughts, actions, and distinctive opinions on
how to improve the world around them. Henry David Thoreau and Benjamin Franklin had a lot of
similar ways of life. The men didn't believe in the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
His autobiography is the first example of the completion of the American Dream. Franklin talks
about his life history as an example to exemplify the most significant American character and
principles, like strength of mind, self–reliance, determination, hard work, penny–pinching, and
dependence on a code of moral principles are the elements of achievement. He describes how he
became an excellent citizen through lack of money and steady assiduousness. Franklin established
the potential of life in the New World through his own rise of the social classes. His family was poor
when he was a child, but despite that, he became a very rich and influential man. In addition, he
declares that he pulled off his achievements through a diligent work ethic. He showed that even
ordinary people in Boston possibly would, through industry, turn out to be great people of
significance in America. Walden, by Henry David Thoreau describes the events and the thoughts
that came to Thoreau all through his time living at Walden Pond in the eighteenth century. Henry
David Thoreau was a poet and a theorist who experienced a life of ease so that he could create a
relationship between nature, people, and God. His narrative in Walden depicted many themes, for
example the significance of the natural world, the implication of development, the meaning of
detail, and the connection between the body and mind. He also urbanized many theoretical ideas
about living a simple and natural life, and

Henry David Thoreau: Transcendentalist Writer
Henry David Thoreau was a nineteenth century American author who lived during the height of
Transcendentalism. He became an important contributor to this movement ("H. D. T." Poetry
Foundation). Thoreau received much information about this movement from Emerson, a noteworthy
friend of Thoreau. Thoreau wrote many significant works in American literature, including Walden
and "Civil Disobedience." The works of Henry David Thoreau were strongly influenced by the
Transcendentalist movement and centered around his stay at Walden Pond. Henry David Thoreau
was born in Concord, Massachusetts, on July 12, 1817, to John and Cynthia Thoreau. He was the
third of four children (Bloom 7). From early on, Thoreau felt a strong connection to the natural ...
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He later became the secretary and curator, being endowed with the responsibility of organizing the
agenda and location of meetings (Bloom 17).
The Transcendentalist movement was centered in Concord. The philosophy of Transcendentalism
stated that knowledge originated from the voice of God within humans. This knowledge was
essentially their "inner light" or "over–soul" (Goodman). In other words, one's conscience is an
innate trait. It was society that corrupted people's moral sense. Despite the fact that many
Transcendentalists wanted to change society, they believed that these changes had to begin with
individuals ("H. D. T." Encyclopedia Britannica). These changes that were advocated by
Transcendentalists pertained to pressing social issues at the time, such as the mistreatment of Native
Americans, the Mexican War, and the expansion of slavery (Goodman).
Transcendentalism was the antithesis of Unitarianism, another philosophical movement that was
developing at the time. Many of the major theories of Unitarianism were developed by John Locke,
who believed that the best way for people to grow in knowledge and understanding was through the
use of one's senses and the scientific method (Goodman). Transcendentalists believed that there
were two ways to attain knowledge: through the senses or through intuition. The latter, they
believed, was significantly more useful than the former. In brief, Transcendentalists preferred
individuals over

Frederick Douglas And Henry David Thoreau
Frederick Douglas and Henry David Thoreau
The life and works of Henry David Thoreau and Frederick Douglass' has had a lasting impact in the
literary field since there work is studied now in most colleges. Although, the writers travelled in the
same circle and were both friends of Ralph Waldo Emerson the pair were not friends. In looking at
the life and works of the two dynamic literary giants analyzing their common goals, work, and their
place in Transcendentalist history will bring more understanding of these authors.
The fact that their work is still relevant today is something that Henry David Thoreau and Frederick
Douglass have in common and the fact that they are both wrote from the Transcendentalist Era
perspective and they both abhorred slavery is also a common factor. Although, in their writing they
both have a different take on life Thoreau having been born free and was educated at Harvard, and
Douglass' was born a slave and self–educated they still had some of the same goals since Henry
David Thoreau and Frederick Douglass' were both slave abolitionist who were involved with the
Underground Railroad and both where very passionate about their work on the issues of slavery but
from a different point of view since Henry David Thoreau could not experience slavery but, only
acknowledge that slavery was cruel and wrong through what he learned about slavery whereas,
Frederick Douglass was born a slave and knew firsthand the effects of slavery. It could also be said

Henry David Thoreau Influence
Henry David Thoreau, was an American author, poet, philosopher, and made many other historic
comments with things such as abolition and leading transcendentalist. He lived in the mid–
nineteenth century during a rough time in America. Thoreau attracts diverse perspectives because
the individual and collective life he lived. Thoreau is best known for his book "Walden", a reflection
upon simple living. As well, "Resistance to Civil Government" or "Civil Disobedience", which was
an argument for disobedience to an unjust state. He has written over 20 full volumes, with his
writings about personal life, and many other environmental things. "He was very deeply interested
in the idea of survival in the face of hostile elements. (PAL)" Thoreau has ... Show more content on
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In the 1920s an age of relative affluence, Thoreau was popularly seen as a rebel. "Thoreau's ideals
are inoperative in the real, everyday world, and because he will not compromise his ideals, at all,
they have no effect upon the world: they are politically useless. (TAMU)" Another Critic, Vernon
Parrington, would praise Thoreau as truly original and independent. "In the 1930s, James MacKaye
would turn to the politics and denounce them, because he saw no cooperation and devoid of reason.
(TAMU)" Starting, into the 1940's there was plenty universal appeal, "in the aspect of usefulness"
(TAMU). In 1960's Thoreau became not only relevant but almost a popular icon. Emerson, another
famous writer said "He was bred to no profession; he never went to church; he never voted; he
refused to pay a tax to the State; he ate no flesh; he drank no wine; he never knew the use of
tobacco; and, though a naturalist, he used neither trap nor gun." Meyers claimed that Thoreau was
violent and nonviolent which would seem to follow from the dichotomy of messages in "Resistance
to Civil Government.

Henry David Thoreau
"Solitude" by Henry David Thoreau "Solitude," chapter five of Walden is an inspiring short work in
which Henry David Thoreau describes his comfort in the seclusion of the woods he calls home, and
relishes in the peace and quiet of solitude. His writing is eloquent and evocative, and his topic is
inspiring and thought–provoking. One excerpt from Walden perfectly describes his views:
I find it wholesome to be alone the greater part of the time. To be in company, even with the best, is
soon wearisome and dissipating. I love to be alone. I never found the companion that was so
companionable as solitude. We are for the most part more lonely when we go abroad among men
than when we stay in our chambers. (Para. 12, Thoreau, Henry David. "Solitude." Walden.)
He is essentially saying that whenever he felt lonely, it was not from being alone, but rather from
being in a room full of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
We meet at very short intervals, not having had time to acquire any new value for each other. We
meet at meals three times a day, and give each other a new taste of that old musty cheese that we
are. We have had to agree on a certain set of rules, called etiquette and politeness, to make this
frequent meeting tolerable and that we need not come to open war. We meet at the post–office, and
at the sociable, and about the fireside every night; we live thick and are in each other's way, and
stumble over one another, and I think that we thus lose some respect for one another. Certainly less
frequency would suffice for all important and hearty communications. (Para. 13)
He seems to have grown tired of the monotonous, mundane societal practices of his time. His
solution to this dullness is less frequency of meetings, for he believed that routineness was
deleterious to relationships. Thoreau valued the influence solitude has on a person and saw the
importance of giving himself space, not in order to work against positive social relations, but rather
to improve their

Nonconformity In Henry David Thoreau
Nonconformity, the belief of following one's own path and not listening to the majority in order to
follow one's beliefs, is developed throughout transcendental work in order to develop the belief in
personal values and personal morals. Nonconformity is a difficult and tedious path to follow
throughout life as this path will result in persecution from the majority. Throughout his time at
Walden pond Henry David Thoreau notes that the world has created "deep ruts of tradition and
conformity" and that if one broke free of conformity by dreaming large that they should be large and
all those dreams need are "foundations" (Thoreau, Walden 203–204). Thoreau recognizes that most
citizens of the world follow their forefathers footsteps and that these peoples never took the risk of
breaking away of from society and trying something new. Thoreau is disheartened by this lack of ...
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Thoreau wants to illustrate that while there are consequences to certain actions those consequences
are worth it if the actions are for something one believes in. Thoreau believes in the idea that people
listen to different "drummers" and that one's maturity "is not important" because one should "step to
the music to which he hears" (Thoreau, Walden 204). Thoreau knows that not everyone listens to
what society says and he argues that that's alright because who is society to judge others who may
not want to be a part of it. Thoreau debates that the general conception of how people are perceived
by the majority is flawed and it ends up becoming a detriment to the individual preventing him or
her from attaining prosperity. Thoreau doesn't want society to make the decisions which will dictate
someone's life, he believes it all

The Legacy Of Henry David Thoreau
Introduction: Protest movements – whether a local one to protest alleged police brutality, or a
protracted struggle for national freedom – conjure up the image of unruly crowds engaged in
unchecked violence and destruction of property. Imagine then, civic resistance that is rooted in non–
violence. Most people would not give such resistance any chance of success against muscle and
weapons. Yet, the enduring leadership and legacy of Henry David Thoreau, an early American
author and abolitionist, has shaped the development and evolution of non–violent protest
movements worldwide. This is the story of how the power of Thoreau's words have shaped the arc
of history for nearly 200 years: his pen was indeed mightier than the sword.
Personal Background: Henry David Thoreau was born on July 12, 1817, in Concord, Massachusetts.
He was also raised there for most of his childhood. After graduating from Harvard College he
worked in his family's pencil–making business. Later, he became a schoolteacher but he resigned
after two weeks. He became acquainted with Ralph Waldo Emerson to edit the Transcendentalist
magazine, The Dial, and from there, their friendship grew. They bounced political and ethical
opinions off of one another despite their very different outlooks on various topics. Eventually,
Thoreau took to philosophical writing, his ultimate passion. Thoreau first earned attention for his
seminal work titled Walden. Thoreau had stayed on the shore of Walden Pond in Concord,

Henry David Thoreau
Biographical Summary
Henry David Thoreau was born on July 12, 1817 in Concord, Massachusetts, and was the son of
John Thoreau, a pencil maker, and Cynthia Dunbar ("Henry..." Ency. of World). Growing up in a
"modest New England family," Thoreau was one of four children and was accustomed to living
practically (McElroy). As his family was "permanently poor," he came to accept a moderate
lifestyle, which may have later influenced his thoughts on the necessities of life ("Henry..." Ency. of
World). As a child, he enjoyed exploring nature and was fascinated by its beauty. In his novel
Walden, he remarks that "every morning was a cheerful invitation to make [his] life of equal
simplicity... with Nature herself," and even contemplates that "[he had] ... Show more content on
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of World). His abolitionist efforts and support of civil disobedience were a large part of the legacy
he left behind. He did not advocate violence, but instead encouraged the defense of what is true and
good. Though his works were not very popular when he was alive, his "writings and philosophy
greatly influenced many important world figures... the reformer Leo Tolstoy of Russia, Mohandas
Gandhi of India, Martin Luther King Jr., and other leaders of the U.S.Civil Rights Movement were
inspired by Thoreau's ideas" ("Thoreau..." West's).
Critical Analysis Henry David Thoreau was an influential writer, abolitionist, and leader of the
transcendentalist movement. Through his work, he emphasizes the intriguing pursuit of personal
truth beyond societal definitions. His sagacious observations about human nature are admirable, and
his explanation of the corruption of society is thought–provoking. Though he advocates
individualism, he seems to doubt humans' ability to completely remove themselves from society, as
this way of life demands. In his novel Walden, he says, "The mass of men lead lives of quiet
desperation" (Thoreau 5). Thoreau sees the laboring men of his society, and after concluding that
they are ignorant, claims that "it is a fool's life, as they will find when they get to the end of it, if not
before" (Thoreau 3). Loren Eiseley, a natural science writer, said that Thoreau "sometimes had
difficulty in seeing men or, by contrast, sometimes saw them too

The Accomplishments Of Henry David Thoreau
Background
Henry David Thoreau was born on July 12th, in Concord Massachusetts. Thoreau was many things,
not simply just a writer; but he was one of the most influential writers America knows today. Early
on in his life he grew up in a simple home with hard–working parents, and an abundance of siblings.
His father and mother both had worked as teachers as well as investing in many other trades to get
by. Henry started developing his talent for writing early on, by age ten he had written his first piece
of writing, "The Seasons," as well as many other academic achievements for somebody his age. He
was articulate and mature beyond his years, these things developed into key traits that brought him
to, instead of listening in on lectures at the Concord Lyceum– being the one leading the lectures in
the later years of his life. He came back to Concord after graduating from Harvard University,
starting to work at a public school he'd attended as a child. He was a man with morals; known to
look at things in a more progressive way than many in his life. After being asked to conduct corporal
punishment on a student he left the school he was teaching at to expand his studies and find further
employment. His talents broadened further than essays and poetry, he gave himself away to a life of
helping others, sheltering runaway slaves on their journey to freedom. He was a man of nature, not
as much an adventurer, but he took two years to emerge himself into the depths of nature and not

Comparing Mccandless And Henry David Thoreau
In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "The Transcendentalist believes in the openness of the
human mind to a new influx of light and power; he believes in inspiration, and in ecstasy.
And so he resists all attempts to palm other rules and measures on the spirit than its own,"
( Defining Transcendentalism ). Transcendentalism, in short, is finding oneself through nature, and
since the Transcendentalist Movement of the 1800s, dozens of men have explored existential beliefs.
Likewise, Into The Wild , by Jon Krakauer, tells the story of a young man named
Christopher McCandless and his journey into the Alaskan wilderness, which parallels to Henry
David Thoreau's venture to Walden Pond in 1845. Although Thoreau and McCandless lived
generations apart, the men are connected through their ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
A significant part of identity is personality, and McCandless and Thoreau's personalities intertwined.
For instance, McCandless was an independent learner who did not enjoy following rules. He
preferred going about situations in an unconventional way, or followed his own methods. In college,
he earned almost perfect grades, except in psychics, where he failed because he did not follow the
proper lab format that the teacher ordered; he completed the lab as he pleased (Krakauer). Similarly,
Thoreau attended Harvard, but was not pleased with how he
Badger 2 was being taught, saying he was learning "all of the branches and none of the roots," ( The
Writings of Henry David Thoreau )). Furthermore, both men were talented and could pick up most
trades: McCandless developed a computer programming system for his father, and Thoreau used his
engineering skills to help manufacture pencils ( The Writings of Henry David Thoreau ).
Continually, both men enjoyed the company of other people, but ultimately preferred

Henry David Thoreau Research Paper
Henry David Thoreau was born in Concord, Massachusetts on July 12, 1817. He lived in a farm
house with his mother, Cynthia, his father , John and his three siblings, Helen, John and Sophia.
Thoreau along with his brother John attended a grammar school in Concord before entering in
concord academy in 1828. When he was not in school, Thoreau enjoyed being outside, taking long
walks in the woods and exploring nature. Besides loving nature, he also had an aptitude for
construction and mechanics. When Thoreau graduated at Concord Academy in 1833, He decided to
attend Harvard University endorsed by his mom. With financial support of his entire family,
including his ants and siblings they could afford the tuition which was $179 by the time with room
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He was frequently feeling ill however; he graduated with a bachelor of arts on August 30, 1837.
Thoreau began to write journals on October of 1837, writing over two million words that made 14
volumes. In the fall of 1838, Thoreau along with his brother John, opened their own private school.
John thought English and math while Henry thought language and science. After his brother's death
in 1841, Henry had to close the school not being able to handle by himself. He returned to work
with his father in the pencil business but his friend, mentor and neighbor Ralph Waldo Emerson
invited him to work as a live–in handyman in his home. After living with Emerson for two years,
Thoreau developed ambitions to become a writer, with his help, Henry wrote some poems and
essays which were published in journals. Since he was writing all the time he decided to move out in
order to have some privacy and silence. He needed a retreat. Thoreau developed a plan to build his
own cabin in 1845. The cabin was built on 14 acres of land on the northwestern of Walden Pond.
While living there, he refused to pay a poll tax and got arrested by the local

Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau
INTRODUCTION
Henry David Thoreau was an American author, poet, abolitionist, naturalist, tax resister,
development critic, surveyor, historian , philosopher andtranscendentalist. Henry David Thoreau
was a complex man of many talents who worked hard to shape his craft and his life. He is best
known for his book Walden, a reflection upon simple living in natural surroundings, and his essay,
Civil Disobedience, an argument for individual resistance to civil government in moral opposition to
an unjust state.
Henry's books, articles, essays, journals, and poetry total over 20 volumes. Among his lasting
contributions were his writings on natural history and philosophy, where he anticipated the methods
and findings of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The school ended when John became fatally ill from tetanus in 1842[19] after cutting himself while
shaving. He died in his brother Henry's arms.[20] Meanwhile, he was spending a good deal of time
writing – he had begun a journal in 1837 which ran to 14 volumes of close–packed print when
published after his death. He wanted to be a poet.
But America starved its poets as a rule, and Thoreau spent much of his life attempting to do just
what he wanted and at the same time to survive. For he wanted to live as a poet as well as to write
poetry. He loved nature and could stay indoors only with effort. The beautiful woods, meadows, and
waters of the Concord neighborhood attracted him like a drug. He wandered among them by day
and by night, observing the world of nature closely and sympathetically. He named himself, half
humorously, "inspector of snow–storms and rainstorm
Ralph Emerson's Assessment
Upon graduation Thoreau returned home to Concord, where he met Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Thoreau's struggles were watched with compassion by an older Concord neighbor who was also one
of America's great men, Ralph Waldo

Walden, By Henry David Thoreau
The majority of Henry David Thoreau's Walden, concerns the idea of opting out of society. In his
chapter "Solitude" Thoreau describes how "[his] horizon bounded by woods all to [himself]" (111) is
beautiful and belongs solely to him. As he is enjoying nature Thoreau states, "There can be no very
black melancholy to him who lives in the midst of Nature" (111). Thoreau's theme of being alone
and appreciating nature is found throughout his book to such an extent that one can conclude that he
believes the best way to live is without society. Thoreau cannot stand to pay his taxes because he
refuses to, "recognize the authority of, the state which buys and sells men, women, and children"
(145). Which is such an opinion that leads to him spending ... Show more content on
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People love to have the newest toys, and put great stock in the newest fashion trends. In present day
society, new technology or clothes symbolize status and wealth that separates the social classes of
people. Thoreau shows his readers that this form of separation has existed since the eighteen
hundreds. Thoreau comments on how people would often throw out perfectly good clothes, because
of one little hole, because "people are judged by their clothes" (20). This upsets Thoreau because to
him, a little bit of damage does not mean something is useless or broken. He believes that people
should just patch the hole, since it is more cost effective and will increase the duration of the articles
lifetime. However, more commonly the piece of clothing is thrown out to be replaced by a new
article. In Thoreau's eyes, people follow such a practice because, "Our outside and often thin and
fanciful clothes are our epidermis or false skin" (21). Thoreau's dislike of society stems from the fact
that people "[Donn] garment after garment" (21), taking too much pride in their outward
appearance. The idea that the value of a person's life is dictated by their possessions is one reason
why Thoreau believes that society serves to corrupt and infect everyone who is a part of it. Society
refuses to live by necessity alone, but rather focuses on the accumulation of

Henry David Thoreau Accomplishments
"What you get by achieving goals is not as important as what you become by achieving goals."
Quote, Henry David Thoreau. An accomplishment is just another definition of a goal. They may
take a long time to complete; however, just have faith and great things can come from it. Just like
how Columbus never gave up to find the new world, even though he always thought that the world
was flat. The world has always been a place of innovation and discovery. One of the many personal
accomplishments I would like to have is to travel and learn about the world. All the countries around
the world have their own culture and history, along with stunning national monuments and
landscapes. Every continent, country, and state, have different "personalities." ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
All my life, I've been dreaming about knowing who I truly am. Years pass and I discover that I don't
need to be ashamed or to feel left out, that doesn't matter, being special is something to be proud of.
Even though I'm a dual citizen and not extremely patriotic, It's something that makes me unique.
Later I would learn that my DNA contains mostly Scandinavian, Irish, British, and Western
European. This goes back to when I was younger when my Dad taught me the culture of his home–
country. Also, some other facts I've learned are my birthday lands on the same day as Queen
Elizabeth ІІ, and my middle name is the national flower of England. Currently, I would like to study
Swedish, German, and some others. In the meantime, I've been teaching myself about the ancient
civilizations and the European Revolutions. At school, we only get to learn about certain subjects
and don't get involved in international studies, until we're at a certain grade. My dad taught me that
during his school years, he learned about different countries and how they function, including their
governments and economy. During my life, I've only traveled the world three times and visited three
countries, France, Denmark, and Sweden. Next time I get the chance, I would see all of what the
world has in

Henry David Thoreau
I confess, I all too well know that living in the digital age, I have hindered my opportunities to
immerse myself in nature like Henry David Thoreau. There is rarely a day that passes by that I do
not use my cell phone or computer. Too often I forget that the outside world is more enigmatic and
dynamic than anything that can be found on the computer or in the concrete jungle I enter when I go
back home. I crave the mesmerizing and reflective space that nature has always provided since the
dawn of time. Nature allows me to feel alone, but also become a part of something at the very same
time. Thoreau beautifully claims, "We need the tonic of wildness...At the same time that we are
earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
My grandparents have two small wooden cabins there that they bought back in the eighties. It was
meant to be a special family place where we could all meet. Although it was a four hour flight and
an eight hour drive away, my parents, brothers, and I went up every summer for a week up to a
month. The smells of my grandmother's homemade delicacies and the feeling of the gravel on the
car tires as we drove up the unpaved road left memories that take me back to that place. Picking
blackberries from some wild bushes near the cabin and sitting on my Grandfather's lap as we would
look out from the porch into the thick forest enveloping the land around us, are just some of the
memories I hold near and dear. One visit, a bear crept onto my grandparents' porch on a rather rainy
day. I watched from inside, staring into the eyes of the black beauty, drenched from ear to paw, just a
few feet and a wall away. As I read Thoreau, these fond memories of my time away from the rest of
the world come rushing back to me. His fascination with a world towards which, we have made
ourselves outsiders, intrigues me as well. His yearning to know a place that has no way of ever
being entirely known, is familiar to

Henry David Thoreau Analysis
The autobiography "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau is a first–person narrative explaining what
Thoreau learned from his experiment after two years of living at Walden Pond, embraced by nature.
Thoreau isolates himself from society and martial earnings to gain a higher understanding of what it
means to have freedom as an individual. He simplifies his life to get closer to nature to learn more
about himself and society. If we focus too much on obtaining these so–called comforts of life. We
blur the fact that these luxuries are a hindrance to self–freedom. In society if you do not follow the
same rhythm as everyone else; you are an outcast. That is not freedom but, the definition of
socialism. You can think as you want without restraint and not be silenced by the crowd. Thoreau
supports the assumption, "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he
hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far
away." Henry David Thoreau shows through his experiment that Americans should value freedom,
importance of nature, and self–reliance.
Currently in America we have lost what it means to have freedom. As people want to try to stop you
from having different options and groups like Antifa will go as far to cause you harm. "The United
States has an obligation to its citizens and to the people of the world never to let those who would
destroy freedom dictate the future course of human life on this planet." –Ronald Reagan. When
Thoreau wrote "Walden" in 1854, the United States was only seventy–eight years old. The elements
that improved our personal freedom in this nation were not in effect until the civil war ended in
1865. Thoreau was ahead of his time as historians place the golden age of freethought from 1875 to
1914. Thoreau could be one of first authors in the United States to publish a book encouraging the
idea of free–thought. This idea was not popular at the time "Walden" was only a marginal success
yet, a hundred years later in Civil Rights moment Thoreau's the "Walden" became very popular with
young Americans. The "Walden" inspired theses Americans to obtain freedom of thought with many
examples. "I see young men, my townsmen, whose misfortune

Henry David Thoreau And Transcendentalism
Henry David Thoreau was a leading transcendentalist. He was most known for his essays, with the
major themes focusing on nature and government. His works weren't highly appreciated during his
lifetime, but as years went on they became very influential. He was one of the first
environmentalists, and he laid the groundwork for a lot of progressive movements. Henry David
Thoreau was born on July 12, 1817 in Concord, Massachusetts. In 1833 he started studying at
Harvard college, till 1837. He studied rhetoric, the classics, philosophy, mathematics, and science.
Thoreau didn't like the idea of traditional professions, so in 1835 he took a break from Harvard to
teach. When he went back to Harvard, he refused to pay the five–dollar fee for his diploma. After he
graduated, he started teaching at a public school in Canton, Massachusetts. He quit a few weeks
after starting because he refused to use capital punishment on his students. In 1838, he and his
brother, John, opened a grammar school. This school was extremely progressive for its time; they
would take nature walks and bring their students to local shops and businesses. The school closed in
1842 when John died. Shortly after college, Thoreau met Ralph Waldo Emerson. Emerson took a
great interest in Thoreau and opened him up to amazing opportunities. Emerson introduced him to
some of the most influential people of the time; Ellery Channing, Margaret Fuller, Bronson Alcott,
and Nathaniel Hawthorne. In 1842, Thoreau moved in

Walden By Henry David Thoreau
Walden–by Henry David Thoreau
The book 'Walden' by Henry David Thoreau was published in 1854. The book is a detailed critique
of how modern man is living his life. This life is not fulfilling as people are too busy chasing
material items that really do not add value to their lives. The main theme in this excerpt is
simplicity. When you live a simple life you get to have the opportunity and the time to enjoy life's
precious pleasures. Life becomes more fulfilling if it is lived in this manner. Henry David Thoreau
wrote the book while living in isolation in a cabin near Walden Pond. The author has been described
as being one of the greatest transcendentalists to ever live.
He chose to live in the woods in isolation because he wanted to live

Materialism In Henry David Thoreau
I, Henry David Thoreau, have found myself aggrieved upon your article, Pond Scum, that questions
my beliefs of nature and my way of life. You have proclaimed statements that do not fit me so, such
as being sanctimonious, hypocritical, and misanthropic; for those reasons, you think I should not be
as admired as I am today. However, I refuse to subject to those claims because my teachings and
beliefs are all in the name of the divinity of nature. There is much more to this world than our
materialistic values and complex lifestyle, and if we were just able to open our eyes and look deep
within, then you as well shall be able to understand my teachings. You first accuse me of being
sanctimonious, that I am superior and holier than everyone else in this world. Before criticizing my
political philosophies, you include my quote about the prophet, " 'It seems as if I were more favored
by the gods'...in possession of revealed truth and entitled to enlighten others. Thoreau, comfortable
with that posture, sneered at those who were not" (7). It is true that I see myself peculiar from
everyone else, but I am not as egotistical as you may think. Claiming existence in the universe is not
disgraceful, it should be valued. Every person should be allowed to think for themselves, to follow
their intuition, and seek what they think is right without the insight from others. We should be
allowed to trust our gut because the head is easily fooled than the heart. Therefore, I refute your

Henry David Thoreau And Individualism
Without Emerson and Thoreau's beliefs in the individual, our country would not have the rights and
equalities that make it America. America was founded on individualism. The need to create a
government catering to individual needs sparked a revolution against the biggest world power of the
time. It is fitting that the only true American literary movement, transcendentalism, is built upon
individualism. The first transcendentalist writer, Ralph Waldo Emerson, advocated for individuality
in his works. Subsequently, Henry David Thoreau, Emerson's protégée, took Emerson's ideas to the
next level, urging his readers to break free of conformity and live to the fullest. Thoreau also
explored how to achieve the coveted individualism that Emerson reveres. The need for activism in
individualism is realized in a work written about Thoreau, The Night Thoreau Went to Jail.
Individualism is paramount for the transcendentalist lifestyle and sculpts the way these two men
lead their lives. The essays "Self Reliance," "Civil Disobedience," and "Walden" delve further into
these ideals. Emerson expressed many facets of individualism in his work "Self Reliance." The
individual was of highest importance to him and claimed: "nothing can bring you peace but
yourself" (223). In Emerson's eyes, to be at peace one needed to be true to themselves. His bond
with nature ties into individuality in the piece "Nature." He speaks of how "in the tranquil landscape,
and especially in the distant line of

Henry David Thoreau And Romanticism
Henry David Thoreau Henry David Thoreau's words that "disobedience is the true foundation of
liberty" and that "the obedient must be slaves" is a political statement that never lost its topicality
during the Romantic era. Thoreau is an important contributor to the philosophical and American
literary movement known as New England Transcendentalism. Nature and the conduct of life are
two central themes that are often weaved together in his essays and books that were published in the
Romantic era of literature. Thoreau brought these two themes together to write on how people ought
to live a simplistic life. His naturalistic writing intertwined cataloging and observation with
Transcendentalist views of nature. Through his life and his work, Henry David Thoreau has
contributed to American Literature since the Romantic era. The Romantic era began in 1770, with its
peak being from 1800 to 1850. With emphasis on the imagination and emotion, Romanticism
emerged as a result of the Enlightenment period, which heavily placed values upon reason and order.
Thus, Romanticism depends heavily on "the practical accomplishments of the prior un–Romantic
era– a relationship between material wealth and scientific knowledge on one hand, and personal,
spiritual, or emotional transcendence on the other, that twenty–first century Americans continue to
manage." The simplest explanation for what is Romantic is "'anything but the here and now' or
whatever is not realistic" ("Romanticism"). The

Henry David Thoreau As A Transcendentalist
Henry David Thoreau is remembered for his naturalist writings and is considered a leading
transcendentalist. He was born in Concord, Massachusetts and began writing nature poetry in 1840.
Thoreau would later spend 2 years, 2 months, and 2 days living on Walden Pond in search of a
simpler life, where he would gain understanding and a great appreciation for the world around him
and write about his experiences. The writings of Thoreau can easily be compared to many of the
other authors that we have studied over this course, for example: the works of Drayton, William
Bradford, the biography of Olaudah Equiano, James Fenimore Cooper, Edgar Allen Poe, and even in
the film The New World by Terence Malick. We begin the comparison of Thoreau with Drayton's
"To the Virginian Voyage" when he writes, Where nature hath in store Fowle, Venison, and Fish,
And the fruitfull'st Soyle, Without your Toyle, Three Harvest more, All greater than your wish (7–
12). Drayton is describing the vast amount of provisions that they will have in their new land. He
goes on to express his feelings of gratitude for the new world that he is seeing for the first time and
his exuberance of joy and appreciation of its beauty. When he continues with, When as the Lushious
smell Of that delicious Land, Above the Seas that flowes, The cleere Wind throwes, Your Hearts to
swell Approching the deare Strand (43–48). Drayton's description of his new–found world
resembles that of Thoreau's. Thoreau

Hypocriticism In Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau has long been one of the most respected and honored writers in all of
American literature. For his transcendental ideologies that we see through many of his works, such
as "Walden", he has been idealized by millions even years after his death in 1862. However is this
title deserved? As described by many Thoreau critics, he was a very conceited, hypocritical, and
egotistical individual who had little respect or empathy for humanity. On the other hand, those in
praise of Thoreau describe how his writing was unparalleled in terms description and understanding.
It is clear through analyzing his writings and expert opinions written about him that Henry David
Thoreau was an egotistical and hypocritical person however is also one of the most influential
writers in American History, due to his use of detail and his ability to see deeper meanings, whose
works should be remembered and honored rather than his character. One overarching characteristic
that we can seen through Thoreau's interactions with both fans and friends is his egotistical nature.
In her essay "Pond Scum", Kathryn Schultz provides many examples of this characteristic stating,
"This comprehensive arrogance is captured on one of Thoreau's most famous lines: "The mass of
men lead lives of quiet desperation"" (Schultz 3). As highlighted by Schultz this quote shows
Thoreau's blatant arrogance. By describing man in this way, Thoreau is implying that he is more
righteous than all of humanity. Excluding himself from the statement, Thoreau is essentially saying
that everyone, expect for him that is, is not living their lives in the correct way, that being the way
Thoreau describes in his works. This shows extreme arrogance and self–centeredness to believe that
his beliefs are how all men should be living their lives if they want to live with a strong purpose. As
mentioned by Schultz several times, Thoreau did not even spare his closest supporters from his
intense feelings of self worth. This was even mentioned by many of Thoreau's closest friends.
Kathryn Schultz specifically quotes Ralph Waldo Emerson in her essay who stated that he, "was
never affectionate, but superior, didactic,–scorning their petty ways" (Schultz 3). Thus Thoreau,

Henry David Thoreau Essay
Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau was a man who expressed his beliefs of society, government, and mankind
while living under his own self–criticism. Thoreau believed he had many weaknesses which made
him a failure. This strong disapproval of himself contrasted with his powerful words and strong
actions. These contradictions led to some of Thoreau's greatest pieces of literature.
Henry David Thoreau was born in Concord, Massachusetts on July 12, 1817, in his grandmother's
house. Thoreau believed that Concord was, "the most estimable place in all the world, and in the
very nick of time, too" (Harding 4). Though Thoreau was born in
"the era of good feeling," his family experienced many misfortunes, politically, physically, ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
That sweet solitude my spirit seemed so early to require at once gave the preference to this recess
among the pines, where almost sunshine and shadow were the only inhabitants that varied the scene,
over the tumultuous and varied city, as if it had found its proper nursery" (13–14). It is apparent that
Thoreau associates Walden Pond with his happiest memories.
Thoreau was a deeply religious man, but disliked church. He was very serious as a child and loved
his solitude (Schneider 4). Thoreau says he was truly happiest when he could be by himself (25). In
1828, Thoreau and his older brother John, to whom he was closest, went to Concord Academy.
Henry was the smarter of the two and in 1833, was sent to
Harvard University, where he did very well. It was there that Thoreau was first exposed to writing
publicly when the Editor of the Dial, which is a periodical for a transcendentalist group, gave him a
job. In 1837, Thoreau graduated form Harvard and this is where he first heard Ralph Waldo
Emerson speak. It was at this time that he began writing his journal.
He started teaching in Concord's Center School for a brief period of two weeks. Thoreau was told to
enforce corporate punishment in the classroom and he resigned. He ended up working in his father's
pencil factory where he improved American pencils. He did this by improving the method of mixing
graphite which he discovered by researching the
European

Comparing Sigourney And Thoreau, And Henry David Thoreau
Sigourney and Thoreau
The authors Lydia Huntley Sigourney, and Henry David Thoreau, both demonstrate similarities and
differences in their works. While comparing both essays, it is evident that both authors share similar
views on environmental issues, and at the same time demonstrate great emotional journeys in their
works. The extraordinary beauty of nature appears frequently in both pieces. Both authors focus
their personal experiences, however, within different subject matters. The way in which the authors
express their beliefs and feelings is demonstrated through personal life endeavors. It is apparent that
the authors are expressing their perception of the atrocities committed to the environment by
humans.
In Journals from Tuesday, December 30th by, Henry David Thoreau, he talks about hearing a saw
and then seeing two men cutting down a tree. Thoreau is describing the dramatic crash and fall of
the tree while expressing his thoughts and opinions on the tree being cut down. Thoreau calls the
men "mannikins" and explains how they are "fleeing from their crime."
In fallen Forests by Lydia Huntley Sigourney, she discusses how men are destroying forests and how
large sections of trees are being decimated by careless individuals. She expresses how the trees have
created and done so much for the ecosystem from which they live and at some point in time the
civilization will realize the depth of their destruction. She describes how this action not only effects
the animals

Henry David Thoreau : A Transcendentalist
Henry David Thoreau: A Transcendentalist Religion and politics are perhaps the most important
topics of discussion, and paradoxically, the ones least discussed. Our differences cause us to shy
away from such depth in our conversations with others and it is a remarkable human being who can
share her opinion honestly on the subjects, and even more so, transcend the current popular opinions
of the time. Henry David Thoreau was a man such as this. He spoke out against an unjust society
and challenged the comforts and distractions that society has become so accustomed to. He preached
simplicity in daily life and peace in protest. His words of wisdom have influenced many great
leaders since. Thoreau's call for social reform, individualistic ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
It is here where he met Ralph Waldo Emerson and began attending Hedge Club meetings in
Emerson's home (Olson, pg. 8), and history manifested to create the two fathers of
Transcendentalism.
It is interesting that with the growth of Roman Catholicism and Christianity in general in America
during this time, Emerson, a Unitarian minister, looked to the East for spiritual guidance;
particularly to Hinduism. This wasn't always the case, as early in his life, Emerson was dedicated to
the Church and expressed animosity toward Eastern religion. The transcendental movement shared
many beliefs with the Unitarian church, but digressed from the belief in the Trinity and a beneficent
God toward an amalgam of the many different approaches and ideas of the time. It is later in his
journals that Emerson quotes Hindu scripture and expresses interest in the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavad
Purana, and Upanishads, among other scriptures. Both Vedantic tradition and Emerson's
philosophies emphasize that, "self transcendence is central to self–actualization," and that, "without
transcending the passional ego, the true self cannot be revealed" (Versluis, pg. 67). It was thinking
such as this that was at the heart of the transcendental movement in the 19th century. Gura (pg. 6)
explains that during this period, transcendentalism was split between two ideologies. There were
those that followed Emerson, such as Thoreau, who promoted introspection and being one with
Nature, and another

How Is Henry David Thoreau A Transcendentalism
Henry David Thoreau
Being unique has always been valued in modern American Culture. Especially in the age of
smartphones and social media, people are encouraged to take the untrodden path. In the 1800s,
being unique was not as popular as it is today. People with different views than the majority, were
seen as not ideal. Henry David Thoreau's writing and abolitionist views pushed the boundaries that
surrounded the ways of protesting, writing, and thinking during his time. He was a Transcendentalist
that took different approaches on ways he looked at nature and society. His works and actions
inspired passionate and revolutionary reformers such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Mohandas
Gandhi, and still inspires reformers to this day. Henry David Thoreau impacted the world by
revolutionizing the ways of protesting, writing, and thinking. ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
For example, "Civil Disobedience" is an essay Thoreau wrote, explaining his new ways on rebelling
against the state government (Moran). In this essay, he explained his political views on subjects that
included, his abolitionist views on slavery and his opinions of the Mexican–American War. He also
explained his experience on doing his own peaceful protest by not paying his taxes in disagreement
of the Mexican–American War (A&E Television Networks). Thoreau suffered the consequences of
his protest, by spending one day in jail (A&E Television Networks). Furthermore, the quote, "The
only obligation which I have a right to assume is to do at any time what I think right," exemplifies
how he was not influenced by the society at the time (Moran). Henry David Thoreau proved his
importance, through the ways of protesting and taking the initiative to create

Essay about Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau, a name heard endlessly by American Literature students, has contributed his
outrageous views to society even after his death. Lectures and texts let his perceptions live on
through teachers and professors that are all agreed on the significance of his writing to the
transcendentalistic period. Definitely worth the merit he receives for his contributions, Henry
Thoreau's views are nonconformist and thought provoking. "If a man does not keep pace with his
companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he
hears, however measured or far away" (Thoreau, 14). Thoreau himself marched to a different
drummer, and it is this aspect of all great men that ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Derleth even describes the family as, "a closely–knit family of lifelong duration"(2). Henry's father
was a grave, quiet man, yet not prepossessing like many men of the time period. He was likable, but
his tendency toward deafness made it hard to communicate with him. Henry's mother was an
opinionated, insightful woman, and her lively and bustling presence often brought these opinions to
the surface. Derleth states, "Mrs. Thoreau... could sometimes make sharp observations about her
fellow citizens, though she was not in any sense mean, and she was very much liked" (2). Mrs.
Thoreau was clearly the dominant force in the household, and the house was regularly filled with
women. Aunt Louis Dunbar, Henry's Grandmother Minott before she died, and none other than Lucy
Jackson Brown the sister of Ralph Waldo Emerson's second wife, were all welcomed boarders at the
Thoreau household.
Henry spent most of his life in the Concord Village and town, which at this time was a scarcely
populated town of just about two thousand people. He had, "... a boyhood like many boyhoods..."
(Derleth, 3); he drove cows to the pasture, fished, ran barefoot, built bonfires at Walden pond during
evening fishing episodes, and even hunted a little, though he gave it up pretty quickly. Whereas he
may have been known for having a good sense of humor and easy geniality within his family, he
was a grave boy. It was this fact that

Walden By Henry David Thoreau
Everyone sees the world through their own eyes. Not two people can see something in the exact
same way or interpret it the same way. They can each have their own opinion about the subject. In
"Walden" by Henry David Thoreau, he has a very individualistic view on nature. In "Walden",
Thoreau goes out into the woods to try and live his life deliberately. Schneider states, " In 1845, he
received permission from Emerson to use a piece of land that Emerson owned on the shore of
Walden Pond." He stays there for two years trying to learn what it means to live. After he returns
home, he publishes his journals, which convey his radical ideas, and they immediately become a
bestselling read. In "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau, there are some key similarities and
differences between his view of nature and the view of a contemporary person.
One key similarity between Henry David Thoreau in his text "Walden" and a contemporary person
is that both of them have something to learn from nature. From the day humans are born they never
stop learning. For example, they are like a constant sponge that just absorbs information from their
surroundings. "While at Walden, Thoreau did an incredible amount of reading and writing, yet he
also spent much time "sauntering" in nature." says Woodlief. One place on Earth where there is an
abundance of information for humans to absorb is nature. Thoreau states on page 383, "To front only
the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn

Henry David Thoreau Rhetorical Devices
How do historical figures use rhetoric techniques in their writing? I believe that they use Aristotle's
ethos, logos, and pathos of the rhetorical triangle. Two very important people that have used these
tools of persuasion were Henry David Thoreau and Martin Luther King Jr . Both of these historical
figures use the rhetorical triangle for different uses and reactions. Thoreau's rhetoric is calling for
resistance, and King's rhetoric is calling for empathy and ending ignorance of race supremacy.
Henry David Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience" is persuading because of his authoritative language,
political opinions, and an outreach to his readers. Martin Luther King Jr's "Letter from Birmingham
Jail" is also persuading with his use of an analytical language, repetition, and criticisms. Not only
are the authors using the same techniques, but also using them differently for their desired result.
Thoreau's authoritative language is apparent throughout his writing. He writes as though he is
reaching out to his audience, for example: "Must the citizen ever for a moment, or in the least
degree, resign his conscience to the legislator? Why has every man a conscience then?" (para. 4). I
believe his rhetorical use of logos is effective here. He is not only asking the reader, but also asking
a rhetorical question to the reader as well. Thoreau's use of sarcasm goes along with his authoritative
language within his rhetorical question. Everyone has their own right to think, and he is telling us
that was won't be able to use our conscience if the government can control our thoughts. King's
analytical language is very effective in his letter. He refers back to biblical references to analyze
those events and compare them to his present. In his third paragraph, he tells his readers that he is
where he is at because of "injustice", and refers to a story about Paul, a disciple of Jesus Christ, and
says, "Apostle Paul left his village of Tarsus and carried the gospel of Jesus Christ to the far corners
of the Greco Roman world, and so am I compelled to carry the gospel of freedom beyond my home
town" (para. 3). Why does King repeatedly refer back to his biblical references? WE know that he
was a preacher, so he can relate to these

Henry David Thoreau Transcendentalism
Henry David Thoreau was an American transcendental writer in the 1800s. He was a well–educated
man, having attended Harvard, and his writing served as an unconventional and controversial
recount of his life. He contributed works such as Walden, Civil Disobedience, and several others to
society and became one of the well–known transcendental authors of his time. His works were often
met with criticism though, and his life seemed to take him in quite odd directions, one of which
landed him in jail. A story was written about the time he spent in jail and some of the more
significant moments in his life. In the play "The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail" by Jerome Lawrence
and Robert E. Lee, the authors use examples of civil disobedience and the love ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
After leaving the Public Schools of Concord, Henry actually starts his own school and focusses his
students' attention on the world around them. He says to his brother, "Break out of the classroom
prison. All we need is sky! The universe can be our schoolroom..." (Qtd. in Lawrence and Lee). He
believes that traditional schooling is horrific and compares it to a prison. He believes the only thing
essential for learning is what has been given to them by the universe. Thoreau loves the universe for
its beauty and simplicity. This idea is quite similar to what Emerson discusses in his story Nature,
where he says, "The greatest delight which the fields and woods minister, is the suggestion of an
occult relation between man and the vegetable. I am not alone and unacknowledged. They nod to
me, and I to them". Here he suggests that one can have a relationship between nature and self,
ultimately learning from and gaining happiness from nature. It's clear Thoreau and his brother share
the same beliefs as Emerson when starting their school, and the authors made sure to include that
quote to prove their influences. The authors showed the audience Thoreau's teaching style and how
it expressed his transcendental beliefs. In conclusion, "The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail" is written to
fit perfectly with the true

Henry David Thoreau And Individualism
A significant philosopher of the pre–Civil War era of the United States, Henry David Thoreau
appeared to be above the standard with his philosophically driven life style. He wrote detailed
accounts of his life in his book titled Walden, in which he expressed his desire to escape the
confining pressures of human society. His second chapter lauded the concepts of individualism and
self–sufficiency, yet he never took into account the potential harm of his mentality, for it could hurt
individuals as well as communities, and modern life simply cannot support his ideals. To begin, the
main points of Thoreau's essay must be analysed. Thoreau began by advocating a life that is simple
and slow. This is summarized by the phrase from his book, "Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say,
let your affairs be two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand." A philosophy such as this may be
appealing, especially when one is overwhelmed by the problems presented by society. However,
maintaining this simplicity in a community context requires ignorance of the needs and wants of
other people. Many of society's complicated demands, such as tax payment and jury duty, are
necessary for the betterment of other citizen's lives. In his essay, Thoreau dismissed the importance
of community problems by claiming that they were a complete illusion, adding, "Men say that a
stitch in time saves nine, and so they take a thousands stitches today to save nine tomorrow. As for
work, we haven't any of any

Themes Of Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau When people really take their time to look at the beautiful world around them
and take it in, it is hard not to be amazed. Nature is the world around us such as plants, animals,
ocean, and mounting. Centrally, he focuses on the relationship between nature and wildness,
civilization, culture and the freedom in nature. Also, he thought deeply about nature and how can
affects our self when we are alone. He extremely exaggeration, he trying to hang up and would
attract us. The author could show us the beauty of human relationship attraction and the difference
can attract people between the beauty of society and the of beauty of nature. Thoreau hopes to
inspire and effluence others to follow their own inner guidance in ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Thoreau's described some of the beautiful places about nature, according to him "Some, however,
would derive the word from sans Terre without land or a home, which, therefore, in the good sense,
will mean, having no particular home, but equally at home everywhere." Thoreau see nature as his
home. The author needs from us to feel as he feels" walking through the holy land". This emotion
might not necessary to attract any person to feel as the author feels. He needs from us to realize the
beauty of the world around us, also be able to see and feel the life of nature. Also, he would like to
think about nature is the holy land because of the feeling that we got when we walk into the force.
Extremally could help us to feel and understand the reality of the life in nature. Why the author feels
the nature as home. Because might not feel as the authors feels, it dependences on the person
feeling. Thus, some of the people do not pay attention and could not district the life in this image or
in the same situation, that he related and not everyone can be able to express as him. According to
Thoreau, needs to interact with nature in a certain way with nature. Also, he trying to interacts us
and be honors of walking in nature. As well as, he would try to emphasize the importance of lived
experience in nature. Furthermore, the person who contracts with nature would be more sympathy
and intelligence

Essay on Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau is a man of many facets; a man who refuses to conform to what the masses
believe is acceptable. He calls for the rejection of complexity and for a change in mankind's view of
life. Thoreau, in his many writings, demands change in a stagnant society. He emphasizes respect for
nature, even to the point of blatant disrespect for humanity.
Thoreau's connection to nature was a key ingredient in his lifestyle. He studied ants closely; hoping
to understand them like one understands the human race. He came to the conclusion that either ants
are as dignified as men, or that men have lowered themselves to the ant's position. He stressed the
futility of war, showing in vivid detail that war does irreparable damage to both armies. ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He claimed that humanity dwelled too much on the ideals and thoughts of men who had died long
ago. "The foregoing generations beheld God face to face," he said, "Why should not we have a
poetry and philosophy of insight and not of tradition?" Thoreau obsessed with stirring the
conscience of his peers, which eventually drove him to jail in protest of an 'oppressive government.'
He accentuated the importance of thinking for ourselves and acting on those thoughts. He
understood that a blindness had fallen over his culture, and he struggled to rouse those who couldn't
rouse themselves.
For all of Thoreau's brilliance, he was also a man plagued by his own mind. His ideas of a
"Universal Mind" and 'Being' instead of 'Living' seem foolish to me. I would have to say that, if I
had met Thoreau in his own time, I would have agreed to his insanity. His teachings on
Transcendentalism seem somewhat bizarre to me. How can a stream be too deep "for the length of
your arm... not for the length of your mind?" Perhaps Thoreau was a truly intelligent man who
simply blew a fuse pondering life too hard. Perhaps he was a great intellectual man who understood
what was most important in life, and I am but a detached person with no understanding. Either way,
Thoreau and I would never get along.
Thoreau's most obvious underlying message is resistance. He didn't learn the alphabet like everyone
else, but he learned it sdrawkcab! After his aunt

Naturalism In Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau lives by an ideology of minimalism and simplicity, conveniences of his era
are gratuitous for a life of prosperity. He entered the woods to explore life living deliberately and to
tread a road of existential self–actualization. Thoreau is a transcendentalist so it is only expected that
he does not align with centralized authority through religion and government which leads to the the
overall theme of naturalism and self reliancy. Essentially the theme thoreau advocates is that a
simplistic lifestyle allows one to live freely and wholly without the binds of tyranny and modern
"conveniences."
Within Henry David Thoreau's passage, probably the most conspicuous example of Thoreau's theme
of minimalism and transcendentalism is when he states, "Our life is frittered away by detail. An
honest man has hardly need to count more than his ten fingers, or in extreme cases he may add his
ten toes, and lump the rest. Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity!" (Thoreau 6) Essentially Thoreau
advocates an "honest man" has no need for even the slightest of complexity in life and that a
suspended state of ignorance from what is deemed as extraneous details is bliss. In this quote the
word honest is a strong piece of rhetoric that exclaims that honesty and morality is primarily
attained through simplicity and not through gluttony in curiosity. This connects back to my theme
that thoreau advocates that a man can live virtuously only with simplicity, hence, "Shams and
delusions are esteemed for soundest truths, while reality is fabulous. If men would steadily observe
realities only, and not allow themselves to be deluded, life," therefore of delusions created by this
superfluous reality is responsible for the many of the problems we have in modern society.
Thoreau once again exclaims that complexities in life are extraneous when he states, "Still we live
meanly, like ants; though the fable tells us that we were long ago changed into men; like pygmies
we fight with cranes; it is error upon error, and clout upon clout, and our best virtue has for its
occasion a superfluous and evitable wretchedness."(Thoreau 6) " like ants; though the fable tells us,"
our lives are comparable to the regimented lifestyle of ants

Transcendentalism In Henry David Thoreau

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