Walden Study Guide

1. When does Thoreau first begin to build his house at Walden Pond?

• July 1847
• December 1840
• March 1845
• September 1854

2. When does Thoreau first move into his house at Walden Pond?

• March 17
• September 16
• June 1
• July 4

3. Where is Walden Pond located?

• Concord, Massachusetts
• Lincoln, Massachusetts
• Lincoln, Nebraska
• Concord, New Hampshire

4. According to Thoreau, which of the following is true of "the mass of men?"

• They "live a life of simplicity, independence, magnanimity, and trust."
• They "lead lives of quiet desperation."
• They are "determined to live by faith."
• They are "godlike, immortal."

5. What does Thoreau not include in his understanding of "the necessary of life?"

• Food
• Fuel
• Shelter
• Society

6. How much did it cost Thoreau to build his house?

• $41.30
• $28.12
• $14.72
• $23.44

7. What illness did Thoreau's brother die from?

• Pneumonia
• Influenza
• Lockjaw
• Consumption

8. Which of the following ingredients were essential to Thoreau's most "convenient and agreeable" bread?

• Yeast and salt
• Sal soda
• Rye and Indian meal
• Flour

9. What sentiment does Thoreau express about "old people?"

• "The old alone remember life as it should be lived."
• "The old have no very important advice to give the young."
• "TheyŠare keen and subtle masters who enslave themselves with remembrance of failures past."
• "Their own experience is a valuable example, and their lives have been so varied and full."

10. What is the name of the farm Thoreau considers purchasing?

• Hollowell
• Brister
• Baker
• Fair-Haven