The Night Thoreau Spent In Jail: A Play [Paperback]

A reissue of a now classic American drama.

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 into 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 Jailis a celebrated dramatic presentation of this famous act of civil disobedience and its consequences. Its poignant, lively, and accessible scenes offer a compelling exploration of Thoreau's philosophy and life.

Jerome Lawrence, formerly master playwright at New York University, and Robert E. Lee (1918-1984), who was a professor of playwriting at UCLA, collaborated on thirteen plays, includingInherit the WindandAuntie Mame.

A superior play, a literary work as well as a theatrical experience.Thoreauwould illuminate any season. George Oppenheimer, Newsday

Absolutely fascinating. Richard L. Coe, The Washington Post

There is a great deal to enjoy in this play. Clive Barnes, The New York Times

Following and Understanding the Play

1. Why do playwrights Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee refer to the hero of this play as The Now Thoreau? (p. v) Having read the play, which aspects of Thoreau seem especially contemporary or now to you? Provide specific dialogue, actions, or scenes to illustrate your point of view.

2. The playwrights conclude their introduction by calling Henry David Thoreau a fascinating paradox. (p. vi) Where in the course of this drama did the character of Henry strike you as paradoxicaland why did he strike you this way?

3. The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail is a dramatic representation of a crucial event in American history. Butl1