On Self Reliance by Ralph Waldo Emerson
- 1. In 'Self-Reliance,' Ralph Waldo Emerson presents a powerful and thought-provoking essay that champions the importance of individualism and personal intuition. Emerson argues that each person possesses an innate ability to trust their own judgments and beliefs, emphasizing the need for individuals to break free from societal conformity and external expectations. He encourages readers to embrace their unique perspectives and to have faith in their inner voice, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from self-discovery and the courage to act on one's convictions. The essay explores themes of nonconformity, the value of solitude, and the importance of self-confidence, ultimately advocating for a life lived authentically in alignment with one's inner truth. Through eloquent language and profound insights, Emerson inspires a return to self-trust and the recognition that each person is inherently valuable and capable of creating a meaningful existence through their own thoughts and actions.
What is the central theme of Emerson's 'Self-Reliance'?
A) Trusting one's own intuition and inner voice
B) The importance of collective societal action
C) The economic benefits of industrialization
D) The necessity of strict religious doctrine
- 2. According to Emerson, what is society's primary demand of the individual?
A) Obedience to law
B) Charity
C) Productivity
D) Conformity
- 3. What does Emerson mean by 'the integrity of your own mind'?
A) Never changing your opinion
B) Memorizing vast amounts of information
C) Having a high intelligence quotient (IQ)
D) Staying true to your own thoughts and convictions
- 4. How does Emerson view prayer?
A) He believes it should only be done in church
B) He condemns it as a superstition
C) He thinks it is a plea for personal advantage
D) He sees it as a means to access one's own inner truth
- 5. What is Emerson's view on property and possessions?
A) They can become a distraction from self-reliance
B) They should be shared equally among all people
C) They are the ultimate measure of success
D) They are irrelevant to a person's character
- 6. Emerson states, 'To be great is to be...'
A) Famous
B) Powerful
C) Misunderstood
D) Wealthy
- 7. Emerson writes that envy is:
A) Useful
B) Inevitable
C) A virtue
D) Ignorance
- 8. The essay concludes that nothing can bring you peace except:
A) Retirement from work
B) The acquisition of wealth
C) The triumph of principles
D) The love of others
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