1. In the state of having "life in yourself" that Emerson describes, what does he claim is of no account?
(a) Vast spaces of nature and long intervals of time.
(b) The will and wanting of others.
(c) A man's own personal interest.
(d) This world's many riches.

2. When does Emerson claim that the luster "will be transferred from the actions of kings to those of gentlemen"?
(a) When men begin to trust in themselves.
(b) When men begin using their reason.
(c) When men act with original views.
(d) When men begin to realize their own value.

3. What does genuine action explain?
(a) One's character.
(b) Itself.
(c) Nothing.
(d) Everything.

4. What does Emerson suggest about philanthropy?
(a) Philanthropy is our obligation to poor men.
(b) Philanthropy can be malice and vanity in disguise.
(c) Philanthropy is the highest good.
(d) It is our right to be philanthropic.

5. What is the attribute of the Supreme Cause according to Emerson?
(a) Absolute justice.
(b) Self-reliance.
(c) Self-existence.
(d) Absolute truth.

Short Answer Questions

1. Emerson claims that a man or company of men can overpower "all cities, nations, kings, rich men, poets" when he or they posses which characteristic?

2. What does Emerson say is most important about verses like the ones he mentions at the beginning of the first paragraph?

3. What is an institution the lengthened shadow of?

4. Emerson states, "The way, the thought, the good, shall be wholly strange and new." What does he mean?

5. Which story does Emerson tell to get his point across about self-perception?

(see the answer key)

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