Henry David Thoreau, a truly iconic figure in American literature, was also a leading voice in the transcendentalism movement during the 19th century. His renowned book, Walden, is a reflective account of the two years he spent living in the woods near Walden Pond. Teaching students about Thoreau and his affinity for the natural world can enrich their understanding of both literature and philosophy.
1. Exploring Transcendentalism
Introduce students to the transcendentalist movement by discussing its key principles and how it evolved in response to Romanticism. Highlighting the teachings of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Margaret Fuller, and Bronson Alcott will provide essential context to understand Thoreau’s ideas.
Key principles to discuss include:
– The inherent goodness of people and nature
– The importance of self-reliance and independent thinking
– The emphasis on a direct relationship with God and nature over societal doctrine
2. Thoreau’s Biography
Before diving into Walden, teach your students about Thoreau’s background to give them a deeper understanding of his worldview. Share relevant details about his upbringing, education at Harvard, refusal to pay taxes as an act of civil disobedience, and friendships with notable writers like Emerson and Hawthorne.
3. Analyzing “Walden”
Reading Walden as a class presents an excellent opportunity for students to explore themes like simplicity, self-sufficiency, environmentalism, and spirituality. Walk through critical passages from the text to encourage discussion on these themes.
For example, take time to analyze Thoreau’s famous quote: “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life…and not when I came to die discover that I had not lived.” Discuss what living “deliberately” means from Thoreau’s perspective and encourage students to explore their own ideas of purposeful living.
4. Connections to Modern Society
Ask students to compare Thoreau’s experiment in simplifying his life at Walden Pond to popular modern movements like minimalism, conscious consumption, and zero waste living. Encourage debate on whether Thoreau’s 19th-century philosophies are still applicable today.
5. Field Trip and Experiential Learning
If possible, organize a field trip to Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. This visit can offer students an authentic experience of Thoreau’s environment and allow them to connect more deeply with the text. If that is not feasible, consider nature walks or outdoor journaling activities to immerse students in Thoreau’s appreciation for the natural world.
