Ralph Waldo Emerson

Which statement best describes the imagery in Chapter I of Nature and in Society and Solitude?

Both use a majority of natural images.

Which best summarizes the role of conversation expressed in Society and Solitude?

Conversation has the power to either affirm or destroy the connections between people.

How does Emerson relate independence and friendships in Society and Solitude?

He feels that independence can strengthen friendships.

What attitude toward the stars does Emerson express in the first paragraph of Chapter I of Nature?

He feels they represent awe-inspiring beauty.

Read the excerpt from Society and Solitude. Solitude is impractical, and society fatal. We must keep our head in the one and our hands in the other. The conditions are met, if we keep our independence, yet do not lose our sympathy. Which best describes Emerson's argument in this excerpt?

In order to balance society and solitude, one must maintain both independence and sympathy for others.

How does the relationship between "man and vegetable" described in paragraph five of Chapter I of Nature support the piece's central idea?

It suggests that the relationship between humans and nature is mystical but also unquestionable.

Which best states how the concept of trust is portrayed in Chapter 1 of Nature and in Society and Solitude?

Nature imples suspicion of others but does not state it, while Society and Solitude states directly that suspicion of others is natural.

Which statement best describes Emerson's opinion of communities, according to the first paragraph of Society and Solitude?

Regardless of how tightly bound communities may seem, each person is ultimately alone.

Which statement best describes how the tone of Society and Solitude is different from the tone of Chapter I of Nature?

Society and Solitude has a contemplative tone, while Nature has a more lyrical and whimsical tone.

How is the concept of solitude portrayed in both Society and Solitude and Chapter I of Nature?

Solitude is viewed as a source of strength.

According to the third paragraph of Chapter I of Nature, how does Emerson define the poet's view of nature?

The poet sees something in nature that cannot be quantified.

Which statement best summarizes the final two paragraphs of Chapter I of Nature?

The power in nature that one perceives is due both to nature and to one's intelligence.

Which statement best summarizes the fourth paragraph of Chapter I of Nature?

Truly experiencing and absorbing the beauty of nature can have a healing effect on the mind and body.