Abstract

 Walden primarily embodies Thoreavian life philosophy and corresponds to Chinese ancient human affinity with nature and the universe. The thesis, based on Thoreau’s view on nature, examines Thoreavian life philosophy in the contemporary society from three aspects: first, it explores the literary significance of his life philosophy from the rise of environmental protection and eco-criticism. Then it analyzes the cultural connotation of Thoreavian life philosophy which is made up of two core parts, namely, life of simplicity and diversity. In the end, it discusses the spiritual implication of Thoreau’s life philosophy by explaining the positive influence of an “Inwardness” life to comfort and cultivate individual spirit.

Keywords: Henry David Thoreau; life philosophy; contemporary significance; eco-criticism

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. The Literary Significance of Thoreavian Life Philosophy-5

3.1 The rising of environmental protection-5

3.2 Walden’s inspiration to eco-criticism-6

4. The Cultural Connotation of Thoreavian Life Philosophy-7

4.1 Life of simplicity-7

4.2 Life of diversity-8

5. The Spiritual Implication of Thoreavian Life Philosophy-9

5.1 An “Inwardness” life of self-reliance-10

5.2 An “Inwardness” life of self-independence.-10

6. Conclusion-11

Works Cited-13