Thoreau’s prose style with reference to the essay Civil Disobedience

Answer

Question: Write a note on Thoreau’s prose style with reference to the essay ‘Civil Disobedience’. 

Or, Evaluate Thoreau’s essay Civil Disobedience with respect to its theme and style.

Henry David Thoreau’s (1817-62) prose style in “Civil Disobedience” (1849) is marked by its clarity, simplicity, and depth of thought. Through concise and powerful language, Thoreau conveys his ideas on individual conscience, government, and society, leaving a lasting impact on readers. 

Clarity and Simplicity: Thoreau’s prose style is characterized by clarity and simplicity. It makes complex ideas obtainable to readers, allowing them to grasp the essence of his argument without unnecessary complexity. He employs straightforward language to express profound philosophical concepts, as seen in his discussion of the role of government.

Use of Vivid Imagery: Thoreau often uses vivid imagery to illustrate his points and evoke strong emotions in readers. For example, when describing his experience in prison, he writes, 

“It was like traveling into a far country, such as I had never expected to behold, to lie there for one night”. 

Through this vivid imagery, Thoreau transports readers into his world. He allows them to sympathise with his experiences and understand his perspective more deeply.

Rhetorical Devices for Emphasis: Thoreau employs rhetorical devices such as repetition and parallelism to emphasize key points. It enhances the persuasive impact of his writing. He repeats the phrase “I” to highlight the personal nature of his experiences and beliefs, as in the following lines: 

“I quietly declare war with the State, after my fashion, though I will still make what use and get what advantage of her I can”. 

By repeating “I,” Thoreau emphasizes his individual commitment to his principles.

Integration of Allusions and Quotations: Thoreau enriches his prose style by integrating allusions and quotations from various sources. This includes religious texts and historical figures. These references add depth and context to his arguments, as exemplified by his citation of biblical passages and quotes from political leaders like Daniel Webster. For instance,