Analysis of Civil Disobedience; By Henry David Thoreau

The subject of this essay by Henry David Thoreau is the unjustness of the United States government.  He believes that instead of following what the majority does, an individual should do what he or she believes is morally right. Thoreau organizes his argument very effectively, using poetry and commentary throughout the entirety of his essay.  This paper was intended for ordinary people to read, to change the way the masses viewed the government.  The tone of this piece seems angry as Thoreau discusses the wrongs perpetrated by the United States government.  Thoreau also criticizes other inhumane institutions such as slavery and the Mexican-American War.  The question he addresses in “Civil Disobedience” is whether a person is basically alone or an integral member of society and what responsibilities come with being part of society.