Henry David Thoreau
Lesson plans for
Walden
& "Civil Disobedience"
| Thoreau: Biography and Transcendentalism | | "Civil Disobedience" | | Walden | | Other Writings |
Biography and Transcendentalism
Jill Bolte Taylor's stroke of insight
Looking for a way to connect Transcendentalism with our lives? Try this TED talk, in which Dr. Taylor describes her understanding of the brain and perception. The parallels with Transcendentalism are striking. The talk runs 18:42.
Read Thoreau
Links to 4 short selected readings from
Walden
and a collection of quotations, all with questions for discussion or writing. Designed as an introduction to Thoreau.
Susan Cain: The power of introverts
In this TED talk, Susan Cain explores historical factors behind society's attitudes toward intorverts. Length: 19:04. Possible writing prompt: Susan Cain and Henry David Thoreau discuss living alone. Write the script of their conversation. Where possible, include quotations.
Thoreau Reader
E-texts and related links to
Walden
, "Civil Disobedience," and others. An excellent resource.
The Writings of Henry D. Thoreau
Biography, correspondence, an excellent FAQ section, "Reflections on Walden," and related links. Includes links to transcripts of his journals.
"Civil Disobedience"
Click here : "Civil Disobedience" lesson plans have moved to their own page.
Walden
Click here : Walden lesson plans have moved to their own page.
Other Writings
"Chesuncook"
Text of the essay originally published in 1858.
Henry David Thoreau
Brief biography and text of 3 poems, "Great God, I Ask Thee for No Meaner Pelf," "Inspiration," and "Smoke."
Walden: The Ballad of Thoreau
The two act, four character play is a conversation between Thoreau and Emerson set during the final two days Thoreau spent in his cabin before leaving Walden Pond. The script is available free at the site. Registration required.
"Walking"
Text of Thoreau's essay.
"Wild Apples"
Text of Thoreau's essay, originally published in 1862.
"A Winter Walk"
Background information and text of the essay, available in both PDF and Google Docs format.