English Walden Chapter 2 Terms Flashcards

Questions and Answers

When did Thoreau live in the woods and what is significant about Thoreau living on his own?

On the 4th of July (Independence Day); it signifies his own independence from the confines and limitations of society.

Describe the setting where Thoreau's cabin was located and how does this setting enable Thoreau to transcend from life in regular society.

By the shore of a small pond, surrounded by woods, and a mile and a half away from the closest village; it allowed him to connect with nature and focus on simple living and self-reliance.

What do you think Thoreau means when he says 'I dwelt nearer to those parts of the universe and to those eras in history which had most attracted me'?

He means he has returned to a simpler time and lifestyle where people were more in touch with nature and their own thoughts.

Thoreau would begin each day doing what in the mornings and what is the significance of this?

He would bathe in a pond; symbolically, it was like a baptism by nature, where he would be cleansed and renewed through nature. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Thoreau decide to go live in the woods and what did he hope to get out of the experience?

He wished to 'live deliberately' and experience life in its most essential, truest form. Signup and view all the answers

What does Thoreau say we need to do in order to live happy and fulfilling lives?

Live simply, reduce necessary things, forget about superficial luxuries, and only have what we really need. Signup and view all the answers

Thoreau criticizes the mail system and news reporting in America during his era; what does he think is the problem with these sources of information?

These sources only spread gossip; they do not communicate worthwhile thoughts. Signup and view all the answers

Thoreau states that 'Children, who play in life, discern its true law and relations more clearly than men, who fail to live it worthily, but who think that they are wiser, by experience, that is, by failure.' What do you think he means by this?

Children don't worry as much as adults and focus on enjoying and living life to the fullest. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Thoreau's Independence and Experimentation

Thoreau lived in the woods starting on July 4th, symbolizing his independence from societal constraints.
His choice of location reflects his desire to be free from the limitations imposed by society.

Natural Setting and Its Impact

Thoreau's cabin was situated by a small pond, surrounded by woods, and a mile and a half from the nearest village, fostering his connection to nature.
This isolation enabled him to embrace simplicity, self-reliance, and a deeper understanding of life away from societal distractions.

Return to Simplicity

Thoreau expresses a desire to connect with a simpler time when people were more attuned to nature and their inner thoughts.
His exploration of life in isolation is aimed at rediscovering essential truths about existence.

Morning Rituals as Renewal

Each day, Thoreau began by bathing in a pond, symbolizing a daily renewal, akin to a baptism by nature.
This morning ritual reinforces his philosophy of cleansing both physically and spiritually through engagement with the natural world.

Intentions Behind His Experience

Thoreau aimed to "live deliberately," seeking to experience life in its most authentic form, extracting richness from every moment.
His endeavor was to understand and appreciate the fundamental aspects of existence through direct experience.

Path to Happiness

Thoreau advocates for a simple life, urging individuals to minimize their possessions and discard superficial luxuries.
He suggests that true fulfillment comes from focusing on essential needs rather than material excess.

Critique of Information Sources

Thoreau criticizes the mail system and contemporary news reporting for primarily disseminating gossip rather than meaningful ideas.
He believes these channels fail to communicate valuable insights, instead perpetuating trivial concerns.

Wisdom of Childhood

Thoreau contrasts the carefree nature of children with the burdens of adulthood, suggesting that children grasp life's principles more clearly.
He highlights that the joy and simplicity of childhood experiences provide a more profound understanding of living fully, unencumbered by adult concerns.

Description

Test your knowledge of key terms and concepts from Chapter 2 of Walden. This quiz focuses on Thoreau's experiences and the significance of his time spent living in the woods. Understand the deeper meanings behind his choices and the setting of his cabin.