1.) At the end of the story, the narrator informs us that Bartleby's previous job was as a "subordinate clerk" in the Dead Letter Office, which sorts unclaimed letters and disposes of them. Compare this occupation to the post he takes with the narrator's firm. Why would Bartleby have found being a scrivener for the Master of Chancery appealing (the Chancery court concerned itself with disputed estates and legacies). What insights can we draw about Bartleby's character based on these two jobs?
2.) Working from the obvious clues in "Young Goodman Brown," we can read Brown's wife, Faith, as a representation of his own religious "faith" and map out the color symbolism to understand the story as a commentary on innocence or purity, sin or the world of the flesh, and the complications of living in a world where these qualities are mingled. But is Brown a realistic human being? What internal conflicts take him on this wilderness errand? What does he want when he ventures into the woods?
3.) What, do you think, is the difference between the meaning Emerson finds in nature and the meaning a scientist finds? Is there a difference? Use quotes fromNatureto support your answer!
4.) In general, what is Thoreau trying to persuade his readers to believe in "Resistance to Civil Government"? Are you convinced? Why or why not?
5.) What more extreme aspects of Bronson Alcott's transcendentalism are being spoofed by Louisa May Alcott in "Transcendental Wild Oats"? What's the tone of the piece -- is it meant to be humorous, or do you think it is somewhat mean-spirited? Why?