Henry David Thoreau: Selected Essays

ISBN: 1477557318

Author: Thoreau, Henry David

Condition: New

Product Description Henry David Thoreau remains an enduring figure, not only in the field of American literature, but also as a man who lived his life deliberately and out-loud, so others could by his measure find what it means to be a human being - what it means to be alive. As a writer he put pen to paper to find what it meant to live, and thereby, to communicate his meaning and his life. Thoreau is best remembered in terms of his conviction -- his unwavering faith that he could understand the mystery and translate the essence of Life. Through a study of Thoreau's trail of meaningful words, one embarks on a path to trace the rare example of a true man of letters who wrote not to display his wit or talent or mastery of language, but who wrote to convey his conviction -- his very raison d'tre -- so that others could find a meaning and a fulfillment that comes only after a passionate and thorough search. Thoreau was a spiritual trailblazer, an enlightened one, a Visionary. Generations will continue to follow his lead. This book contains Thoreau's two most famous essays: Civil Disobedience and Walden. It also contains an introductory essay by J. M. Beach, which investigates Thoreau's legacy in American literature. About the Author Henry David Thoreau is an essayist and philosopher. He is one of America's most important and original writers. J. M. Beach is a lecturer at the University of Texas, San Antonio. He has advanced degrees in English, History, Philosophy, and Education. He has been a teacher and educational administrator for over fifteen years. Beach has taught many subjects in the Humanities to a broad range of students, from pre-school all the way to university, in public and private schools, in the U.S., South Korea, and China. Previously Beach was a Lecturer at Oregon State University, the University of California, and at several community colleges in Southern California and Central Texas. Beach's scholarly research focuses on several distinct, but interrelated subjects: The philosophy of knowledge, the science of culture and social institutions, the history and philosophy of education, and literature. Beach is also a published poet. Links to his books, articles, and conference papers can be found at his website at www.jmbeach.com. Follow his blogs at jmbeach.blogspot.com and 21stcenturycanon.blogspot.com