Scenario 1 – Anti-Thoreau:

As students you have studied Thoreau’s life and times and his philosophy, transcendentalism.  You have observed his idealism through his essay, “On Civil Disobedience.”  In the following exercise, your task is to reflect on Thoreau’s ideas by discussing them with a fellow student.  You will be anti-Thoreau and your partner will be pro-Thoreau.

Anti-Thoreau facts:

1. An unidentified relative (probably his aunt) paid his poll tax. 
2. Thoreau based his essay on only one night in jail.
3. Thoreau was a single man with no children who lived alone.
4. Thoreau did not advocate that others follow his example, only that they follow their own consciences.

Using an instant message feature, dialogue electronically with your partner.   After responding to your partner’s questions, each time, follow with a question of your own.  Make sure to save your completed dialogue and print a copy.