The American naturalist's life and philosophy are revealed in a dramatic work which focuses on his symbolic act of civil disobedience in 1846. A superior play, a literary work as well as a theatrical experience. If the law is of such a nature that it requires you to be an agent of injustice to another, then I say, break the law, so wrote the young Henry David Thoreau in 1849. Three years earlier, Thoreau had put his belief in action and refused to pay taxes because of the United States government's involvement in the Mexican War, which Thoreau firmly believed was unjust. For his daring and unprecedented act of protest, he was thrown in jail. The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail is a celebrated dramatic presentation of this famous act of civil disobedience and its consequences. It is poignant, lively, and accessible scenes offer a compelling exploration of Thoreau's philosophy and life. Scene after scene moves you to laughter or close to tears. Thoreau would illuminate any season. A reissue of a now classic American drama.

Reading Counts RC,High School,8.1,5,Quiz: 08382,Guided reading level: NR.