Emerson and Thoreau are the most compared and contrasted authors of all time and here is just one more comparison. The main issues focused on are Transcendentalism, theme, and imagery in stories.
             Transcendentalism is a philosophy of individualism and self-reliance. It was very popular in New England in the 1830's. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau had both similar and different ideas on Transcendentalism. On the issue of individuality they agree. Emerson says "insist on yourself; never imitate"("Maxims"205). Thoreau says, "Let every man make known what kind of government would command his respect"("Civil Disobedience"224). The issue they disagree on is their thoughts on the government. From the "Maxims" Emerson says, "An institution is the lengthened shadow of one man"(205). "Civil Disobedience" written by Thoreau states "To speak practically and as a citizen unlike those who call themselves no government men, I ask for, not once a government, but at once a better government"(224). These quotes show their different opinions on the same issue.
             Theme is the underlining meaning in a work of literature. Emerson and Thoreau both have ideas on this. Emerson says, "The young patriot feeds himself stronger than before a new thousand eyes and arms"("Self-Reliance"210) on the issue of independence. Agreeing with him Thoreau says, "The process from an absolute to a limited monarchy from a limited monarchy to a democracy is a progress toward a true respect for the individual"("Civil Disobediance"227). They disagree on being an activist, Emerson says to Thoreau "Henry why are you here"("Biography of Thoreau"216)? Thoreau replies "Waldo why are you not here"(" Biography of Thoreau"216)?
             Imagery is the way an author explains a picture t
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