Laura Dassow Walls’ biography of Henry David Thoreau (titled Henry David Thoreau, A Life) explores the wide range of talents and accomplishments of this significant 19th century intellectual, philosopher, social reformer, businessman and naturalist, who helped shape our national identity. Thoreau’s range of interests and accomplishments extend beyond his legendary tenure at Walden Pond. His essay, “On Civil Disobedience,” provides an inspiration to Americans who value free thought and individuality. Thoreau’s interactions with other poets and essayists—Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Walt Whitman—are also interesting. He played a significant role in the abolition movement and advanced the family pencil business, all while working as a sought-after surveyor.
The Siegal Lifelong Learning Program will offer a remote course titled “The Multi-Dimensions of Henry David Thoreau” Mondays from June 21 to July 26. Whitney Lloyd, college adviser to the Montessori High School at University Circle and a former history teacher and director of college guidance at St. Louis Country Day and Cleveland’s University School, will teach this course.
It is offered with the generous support of the Association for Continuing Education.