How does the play The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail function as a work of protest? (Hint: It was published in 1971.)
Based on his Transcendentalist perspective, what do you think Thoreau would protest today?
Support your response with evidence from the play.
Make sure you include the following in your response:
An explanation of how the play is a work of protest.
A current issue that Thoreau would protest based on his Transcendentalist perspective.
Text evidence (quotes) from the play to support your response.
The play "The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail" functions as a work of protest by challenging societal norms and questioning authority, which aligns with the principles of civil disobedience and nonconformity emphasized by Henry David Thoreau. Published in 1971, during a period of heightened activism and dissent in the United States, the play serves as a reflection on the nature of protest and resistance against oppressive systems.
Thoreau's Transcendentalist perspective, as portrayed in the play, values individual freedom and autonomy, human connection with nature, and the rejection of conformity and injustice. Given these principles, it is likely that Thoreau would protest modern environmental issues, particularly the disregard for nature and the exploitation of natural resources. The play suggests that Thoreau's activism would continue beyond his time, even in the present day.
One example of Thoreau's potential protest in today's world is evident in his stance against consumerism. In the play, Thoreau argues against material possessions and the pursuit of wealth, asserting that "wealth or poverty, the value of a man's life does not consist in the abundance of the things which he possesses" (Act III). Thoreau's condemnation of materialism suggests that he would protest the excessive consumer culture that dominates modern society and contributes to environmental degradation.
Furthermore, Thoreau's Transcendentalist perspective would lead him to protest social inequality and injustice. The play portrays Thoreau's concerns over slavery and the treatment of Native Americans, indicating that he would protest similar forms of discrimination present today. Thoreau expresses his opposition to injustice by stating, "I could not sit silently by and permit another man to be condemned for exercising the very freedom that I would die to protect" (Act I). This quote underscores Thoreau's commitment to fighting for justice and equality, indicating that he would protest against racial discrimination, gender inequality, and other forms of social injustice prevalent today.
Overall, "The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail" serves as a work of protest by challenging authority, calling for individual freedoms, and addressing issues of social injustice. Thoreau's Transcendentalist principles affirm his likely protest against environmental degradation and consumerism as well as his commitment to fighting against social inequality. The play highlights Thoreau's enduring relevance and his message that protest and resistance are vital components of a just and free society.