Henry David Thoreau

Henry David Thoreau was an American essayist, poet, and philosopher who is best known for his book 'Walden,' a reflection upon simple living in natural surroundings, and his essay 'Civil Disobedience,' an argument for disobedience to an unjust state. Thoreau's philosophy of transcendentalism and his advocacy for nature and environmental conservation have been influential to both literary and political thinkers.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Walden

    This work is a reflection upon simple living in natural surroundings, inspired by the author's two-year experience of living in a cabin near a woodland pond. Filled with philosophical insights, observations on nature, and declarations of independence from societal expectations, the book is a critique of the complexities of modern civilization and a call to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the natural world. It explores themes such as self-reliance, solitude, and the individual's relationship with nature.

  2. 2. Civil Disobedience

    The book is a seminal work on the philosophy of non-violent resistance, advocating for individual freedom and the refusal to obey unjust laws. The author argues that individuals have a duty to prioritize their conscience over the dictates of laws and that governments are inherently prone to corruption and should not command absolute allegiance from their citizens. The book has greatly influenced many nonviolent resistance movements around the world, including those led by Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

  3. 3. Essays of Henry David Thoreau

    This collection of essays presents the profound reflections of a renowned philosopher and naturalist on a variety of subjects, including nature, self-reliance, civil disobedience, and transcendentalism. The author's eloquent prose and deep insights into human existence and the natural world continue to inspire readers, offering a timeless perspective on living a meaningful, deliberate life. His views on individualism and nonconformist thought have had a significant impact on both personal and political spheres.

  4. 4. Poems Of Henry David Thoreau

    This collection brings together the lyrical and philosophical poetry of a renowned American transcendentalist, offering readers a reflective journey through the natural world and the human spirit. The poems, characterized by their simplicity, clarity, and connection to nature, delve into themes of individualism, social critique, and the inherent beauty of the wilderness. The poet's deep reverence for the environment and his contemplative musings on life and society are woven throughout the verses, providing a meditative exploration of the world and the self, and inviting readers to look beyond the surface of everyday existence.