Emerson; Self-Reliance

Introduction While disorganized, this is perhaps Emerson’s most famous and most vehement essay. Once you filter through it, it calls for great strength and optimism.

The Call Answer the following questions fully. Use another sheet of paper.

1. According to Emerson, what is genius?

Therefore, do you need a lot of schooling for this?

What do you need to achieve genius?

Who do you know who could be Emerson’s genius?

2. What do we recognize in every work of genius?

How is that embarrassing?

Do you believe Emerson has felt this?

3. Complete the quote "God will not have his work ____________
_______________________"

Can anyone do God’s work, then?

Explain.

4. What happens when you "trust thyself."

What happens when you don’t?

What does Emerson mean by the word "childlike" on page 177?

Continued on next page
Self-Reliance, Continued

5. What advantages does youth and infancy have over their elders?

Why is this good?

How does the boy act?

How is that different from the man?

6. Complete the quote "Society everywhere is in conspiracy __________
___________________________.

Explain.

What, specifically, does he mean by "Society"

What does it do to a man?

7. Why must a Man be a Nonconformist?

What does he need to question?

Does this make Emerson very religious?

Could you use this argument to rationalize evil?

8. Why must the Doctrine of Hate be taught?

What would be a truly evil act for Emerson?

What would be a truly good act?

What does the word "whim" mean?

Why is it appropriate for his doorpost?

9. How can virtues be penances?

Who decides if something is a virtue?

Why, then, do you need to do a penance?
Continued on next page
Self-Reliance, Continued


10. What defines a great man?

What, then, defines a weak one?

11. How does conforming scatter your force?

Can you be mostly an individual?

Explain.

How does this affect your face?

12. Complete the quote: "For non-conformity, the world ________
_______________________________."

What does he mean by "feminine rage"

(end 182)


Thought Question o What do you suppose Emerson would make of Lord of the Flies?

o What would he have said about the LA Riots?

o Does Emerson think the soul is good or bad?