Civil Disobedience In 'The Night Thoreau Spent In Jail'

Protest. This simple word brings to mind images of violent revolution, interactions between civilians and officers of the law. Perhaps, specifically the Boston Tea Party, The Occupy Wall Street Movement, or The Salt March. Famous names also come to mind, Mohandas Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Rosa Parks, all were known for their use of civil disobedience. However, one name is not oft remembered but deserves to be, as he coined the term ‘civil disobedience,’ Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau trademarked the usage of the phrase ‘civil disobedience’ in his essay of the same title. He was an avid abolitionist, tax resistor, naturalist, and an essential Transcendentalist. Thoreau was the original political delinquent. His works echo in the actions of every political party around the globe, and his impact is immeasurable. …show more content…
Lee and Jerome Lawrence, that recounts the night Henry David Thoreau spent in jail in 1846, and the events leading up to his temporary incarceration. This play focuses heavily on the theme of civil disobedience, peaceful protest, and political action or inaction in some cases. This theme is shown in multiple ways throughout the film, particularly split into three categories, akin to the forms of conflict. Thoreau’s protest …show more content…
Focussing heavily on the theme of civil disobedience, peaceful protest, and political action or inaction, the two act play wonderfully weaves a true to life tale of the foundings of the origin of the method of civil disobedience and protest so widespread today. By focussing on one of the most important aspects of Thoreau’s real life, the playwrights were able to truly explore the facets of Thoreau’s morals, and ideals that keep him still in the classroom, and the hearts of