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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. What kind of fish does Thoreau try to catch in the winter?

2. How long does Thoreau live at Walden Pond?

3. How does Thoreau often find his way home in the dark?

4. How often does Thoreau go to the village?

5. Who does Thoreau help toward the north star?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Thoreau believe that people should read the classics?

2. What kind of 'music' does Thoreau make while hoeing the bean-field?

3. Why does Thoreau advocate living "free and uncommitted"?

4. How does Thoreau clean his house?

5. How does Thoreau describe the development of his relationship with the forest and Walden Pond?

6. How does Thoreau say he became more intimate with his beans?

7. Does Thoreau believe this is a practical way that everyone can live?

8. What does Thoreau think is a 'surprising and memorable experience,' and why?

9. Why is Thoreau so unhappy with the state of culture in Concord?

10. Why does Thoreau despise the railway?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

If you tried to carry out Thoreau's experiment today, would it be possible? Why or why not? Write an essay explaining how our modern society can prevent us from living such a simplified lifestyle. Be sure to include any modern inventions that would actually assist a minimalist lifestyle.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay explaining the impact Walden had on one of the following: Literature, art, psychology and philosophy.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay expressing your opinion on hunting. Be sure to address:

1 - Hunting for sport vs hunting for food.

2 - Any existing arguments for or against hunting.

3 - The state of hunting laws in your area.

4 - Any recommendations you have.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 877 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample