Henry David Thoreau often referred to resignation as accepting one's circumstances with peace and contentment, giving up resistance to fate or events beyond one's control. Resignation for Thoreau was a form of surrendering to the natural flow of life, embracing simplicity and finding contentment in the present moment.
government is a nessesary evil
That individuals must judge right and wrong for themselves
Henry David Thoreau was a famous American author. He said that people live meanly like ants meaning that they don't think about others.
This passage from Walden by Henry David Thoreau suggests that we only truly experience and appreciate the opportunities and possibilities each day has to offer if we are fully present and aware in the moment. Thoreau emphasizes the importance of being mindful and engaged with our surroundings to make the most of each day.
Thoreau is suggesting that he did not want to accept things as they were without taking action or trying to change them. He did not want to simply endure his circumstances with resignation but instead wanted to live deliberately and purposefully.
This quote by Henry David Thoreau suggests that some people may choose to follow a different path in life because they are unique individuals with their own beliefs and values. They may hear a different "drummer," or inner calling, that guides them in a different direction from their peers. Thoreau encourages embracing one's individuality and not feeling pressured to conform to societal norms.
That the government is a toy that the people play with
Thoreau meant that being a good person and doing good deeds are valuable investments that will always bring positive returns in one's life, regardless of any external circumstances. Goodness and kindness towards others will always be beneficial and never lose their value.
Henry David Thoreau uses ethos by presenting himself as a morally principled individual who is willing to stand up for his beliefs in civil disobedience. He emphasizes his personal integrity and conviction in his argument against unjust laws and government actions, demonstrating his credibility and authority on the subject.
In this passage, Thoreau is encouraging readers to simplify their lives and focus on what is truly essential. By driving life into a corner and reducing it to its lowest terms, he suggests cutting out unnecessary distractions and complexities in order to find meaning and clarity in the simplest aspects of life.
That the army is one part of the government
Thoreau uses this metaphor to suggest that blindly following the law without questioning its morality or validity can lead to oppressive enforcement measures, symbolized by soldiers marching in formation. He implies that excessive obedience to unjust laws can result in the erosion of individual freedom and conscience.