Day 5

Leaves of Grass Lesson Plan

Discussion of Thought Questions

  1. 1

    In "The Poet," what does Emerson think a poet will encourage in the rest of the country?

    Emerson asserts that a poet who focuses on the transcendental will encourage the rest of the country to focus similarly on the spiritual, the unseen. Emerson's idea is that having a poet changes the mindset of a country, reminds the citizens of the importance of the intangible. Is the poet, as Emerson says, a liberator? Encourage students to discuss the connection between this idea and Whitman's work.

  2. 2

    What is Emerson exhorting when he says "Doubt not, O poet, but persist. Say, 'It is in me, and shall out'"?

    Emerson's concern is that his call for the poet is...

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2791 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in