Similarities Between David Thoreau And Washington Irving

Kara Wooldridge

Mrs. Koshy

English 246-01

1 April 2023

Washington Irving and David Thoreau Use of Nature

Nature is all around us. To the highest point in the sky to the lowest point on earth. From the heat from the sun to the chill winds of the night. In literature authors can use nature in many different ways. Nature can be a symbol, set a scene, or even have a spiritual meaning in writing. They are excellent instances of authors who used their literary works to influence society's perception of the world at the time. These authors make extensive use of metaphors to influence the world around them. Each has their unique style, topic, and traits that distinguish their works. In order to fully grasp the great impact of literature during the American Renaissance/Romantic period, it is good to examine who Washington Irving and David Thoreau are, and how the nature in their writing

According to the first point of view, nature is a terrifying panorama of the unexpected and uncontrollable. The second point of view holds that nature is redemptive and didactic. Irving depicts the terrain as uncontrolled; no one can change it until it chooses to change on its own. It maintains equilibrium without the assistance of humans. Also, Nature's uncontrolled aspects demonstrate how equilibrium must come from within; it cannot be imposed. Irving also used the second perspective of nature to educate readers about the value of change and tradition. When Rip awakens, he observes how nature transforms, as the firearm becomes "an old firelock...the barrel incrusted with rust..." (Irving 16). Nature changes Rip's tools, but nature does not always change. As Rip returns home, he notices that the mountains and rivers are nearly identical. Nature is utilized to teach Rip the need to maintain a balance of change and tradition while staying independent of