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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Emerson say we become aware of the changes in our lives brought on by experience?

2. How is the soul different from the physical body, according to Emerson?

3. According to "An Address", what subverts the truly moral character of man?

4. Into how many categories does prudence manifest itself, according to Emerson?

5. Who or what is a part of nature, according to "Nature"?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to "Compensation", how does nature maintain balance? How can one maintain balance on earth?

2. What are the two qualifications for a good gift, according to "Gifts"?

3. How was Plato's dichotomy of the body and soul relevant to Emerson's time?

4. What rights does every individual in a free society have, according to "Politics"?

5. According to "New England Reformers", what does a reformist attitude challenge?

6. According to "Manners", what people are permitted latitude in their manners?

7. According to "Circles", how must humans adapt to the constant state of change that exists?

8. According to "The Lord's Supper", what does Emerson say is the purpose of the Lord's Supper in Christian ritual? What does he say should be the focus?

9. How does Emerson define character? What analogy does he use in his definition?

10. According to "Nature", what is the role of nature?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the role of intuition in Emerson's writings.

Essay Topic 2

What is the purpose of "Selected Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson"? What do you learn about Emerson by reading it?

Essay Topic 3

Explain Emerson's relationship with Thomas Carlyle.

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