Essays by Ralph Waldo Emerson

1. What are the three sources of learning that Emerson says scholars should use, and why does he think all three are necessary?

2. Why does Emerson warn against becoming a 'bookworm' who just copies what other people have written?

3. Emerson says 'the universe keeps perfect books' and every account must balance. What examples does he give of this principle working in nature and human life?

4. Why does Emerson argue that trying to get pleasure without pain or gain without loss is like trying to get 'an inside without an outside'?

5. Emerson says we dismiss our own thoughts as unimportant, then are impressed when strangers express the same ideas. Can you think of a time this happened to you?

6. Why does Emerson believe society trains us to doubt ourselves and seek validation from others? What mechanisms does he identify?

7. According to Emerson, what two essential elements does true friendship require, and why do most relationships lack them?

8. Why does Emerson argue that we cycle through disappointment with people - first idealizing strangers, then rejecting them when they prove human?

9. According to Emerson, what's the difference between real heroism and the kind we usually think about?

10. Why does Emerson say that heroes don't wait for permission or approval before acting on their beliefs?

11. According to Emerson, what's the difference between someone with good manners and someone who's just following etiquette rules?

12. Why does Emerson think that trying too hard to impress people actually makes you less impressive?

13. According to Emerson, what makes a gift truly meaningful versus hollow and empty?

14. Why does Emerson say that both giving and receiving gifts can create resentment, even when people have good intentions?

15. According to Emerson, what made Shakespeare great - pure originality or his ability to work with existing materials?