What was the purpose of Walden?

Thoreau’s main purpose in living at Walden Pond was to remove himself from the mainstream culture found in the nearby towns. In order to justify his attempt to escape from society, Thoreau criticizes the hurried and fast-paced way of life which was so common during the Industrial Revolution.

What is the main theme of Walden?

Walden is viewed not only as a philosophical treatise on labour, leisure, self-reliance, and individualism but also as an influential piece of nature writing. It is considered Thoreau’s masterwork.

What does Thoreau say about wisdom?

Thoreau seems to have a particular definition of what he considers wisdom. He believes that true wisdom lies within every individual, and they must go out and find it on their own, through the practice of what he would consider actually “living”, and not just being alive.

What are Thoreau’s values?

Thoreau’s strong individualism, rejection of the conventions of society, and philosophical idealism all distanced him from others. He had no desire to meet external expectations if they varied from his own sense of how to live his life.

Why did Thoreau quit teaching?

While a student at Harvard, Thoreau taught for a time. Afterward, he tried teaching full-time at the Center School in Concord, but resigned quickly when told he needed to use more corporal punishment to keep students in line.

What are the beliefs of transcendentalism?

Transcendentalists believe that society and its institutions—particularly organized religion and political parties—corrupt the purity of the individual. They have faith that people are at their best when truly “self-reliant” and independent. It is only from such real individuals that true community can form.