Henry David Thoreau

Definition

Henry David Thoreau was an American author, naturalist, philosopher, and transcendentalist best known for his book 'Walden' and his essay 'Civil Disobedience.' His works reflect a deep connection between nature and spirituality, advocating for individual conscience and self-reliance, which influenced the development of American literature and thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thoreau spent two years living in a cabin near Walden Pond, an experience he detailed in his book 'Walden,' which reflects on simple living and self-sufficiency.
2. His philosophy emphasized the importance of personal experience and intuition over materialism and societal expectations.
3. Thoreau's ideas on civil disobedience greatly influenced later social movements, including the civil rights movement led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
4. He was a key figure in the transcendentalist movement alongside Ralph Waldo Emerson, promoting ideas that combined spirituality with a respect for nature.
5. Thoreau's writings advocate for a profound connection with nature, arguing that society should prioritize harmony with the environment over industrial progress.

Review Questions

• How did Thoreau's experiences at Walden Pond influence his views on society and nature?
  • Thoreau's time at Walden Pond allowed him to reflect deeply on the relationship between humanity and nature. Living simply in solitude helped him to critique societal norms and materialism, leading him to advocate for a life of purpose and connection to the natural world. This experience shaped his belief in self-reliance, urging others to seek their own truths through personal experience rather than societal expectations.
• In what ways did Thoreau's concept of civil disobedience challenge conventional views on law and government?
  • Thoreau's concept of civil disobedience challenged the idea that individuals must unconditionally obey laws imposed by government. He argued that unjust laws should be resisted through nonviolent action, emphasizing the moral responsibility of individuals to act according to their conscience. This view not only questioned governmental authority but also inspired future movements advocating for social justice and human rights.
• Evaluate how Thoreau's philosophy reflects transcendentalist principles and its impact on American literature.
  • Thoreau's philosophy embodies key transcendentalist principles such as individual intuition, connection with nature, and self-reliance. His works encourage readers to look beyond societal constraints and recognize their own spiritual experiences as valid sources of truth. This emphasis on personal insight and natural harmony significantly impacted American literature by inspiring future writers to explore themes of individuality, nature, and social reform, thereby enriching the literary landscape with new perspectives.

Related terms

Transcendentalism:

A philosophical movement that emerged in the early 19th century in America, emphasizing individual intuition and the inherent goodness of people and nature.

Civil Disobedience: An essay by Thoreau that argues for the individual's duty to resist unjust laws and government actions, becoming a foundational text for nonviolent resistance.

Nature Writing: A literary genre focused on the relationship between humans and the natural world, often celebrating the beauty and importance of nature.