• Introduction
• Learn
• Try It!
• Task

Learn

In this lesson, you will be reading portions of Emerson's essay “Self–Reliance.” His essay is an extended definition of what it means to be self–reliantreliance on one's own capabilities, judgment, or resources; independence. Like “Rip Van Winkle,” this essay focuses on the Romantic theme of optimism and individualism.

Throughout the essay, Emerson uses figurative languageFigurative language is descriptive language used to convey ideas or emotions.. Figurative language is not meant to be taken literally. It is meant to express some truth that reaches beyond the literal level. Figurative language can include many different literary elements such as imagery, personification, symbols, similes, and metaphors. Pay close to attention to the metaphorsMetaphors make comparisons between two like things without using the words “like” or “as”. used within this essay.

Reading

• Read excerpts from “Self–Reliance”,
• As you read the essay, answer the “Self–Reliance” Questions.