Give a description of Thoreau’s roommate in the prison cell
Civil Disobedience is a notable literary work by Henry David Thoreau. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Civil Disobedience.
Answer
Give a description of Thoreau’s room-mate in the prison-cell. [2020]
Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862) spent one night in jail for not paying the poll tax. His stay was short but full of meaning. It gave him a new view of human nature. He met a prisoner there whose simple, cheerful nature deeply impressed him.
A Cheerful Companion: Thoreau’s roommate was a lively and friendly man. The jailer introduced him as “a first-rate fellow and a clever man.” He greeted Thoreau kindly and showed him where to hang his hat. The man seemed well adjusted to prison life and treated it as ordinary.
His Case and Nature: The prisoner was accused of burning a barn. He claimed innocence and stated that he was wrongly accused. Thoreau thought he might have smoked a pipe in drunken sleep, causing the fire by accident. He had been in jail for approximately three months and was awaiting trial.
His Contented Spirit: Though imprisoned, he remained calm and satisfied. He said he got his “board for nothing” and was “well-treated.” His humor and acceptance of fate made him different from others. His spirit showed no bitterness. Thoreau respected his patience and simple joy, even in the face of hardship.
Symbol of the Common Man: Through this man, Thoreau saw the strength of the common soul. Like he wrote elsewhere,
“The mass of men serve the State… as machines.”
Yet his roommate seemed more human, free in thought, and happy in heart. He reminded Thoreau that goodness can even flourish behind bars.
In short, Thoreau’s roommate was a simple, honest, and cheerful soul. He lived peacefully in prison and accepted his life with grace. His calm nature and friendly talk gave Thoreau comfort and insight during that single memorable night.
