Contents

Acknowledgements

Abstract

摘要

Chapter One Introduction-1

1.1 Introduction to Thoreau.-1

1.2 Introduction to Walden-1

  1.3 Literature Review2

Chapter Two Aesthetics of Ecocriticism-3

2.1 Brief Survey of Ecocriticism-3

2.2 Ecological Study-3

2.3 The Purpose of Ecocriticism-4

Chapter Three Aesthetics of Walden-5

3.1 Purity and Beauty of nature-5

3.2 Balance between man and nature-6

  3.3 Contemporary significance and value of Walden.7

Chapter Four Conclusion-9

References-10

Abstract

Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) was excellent natural philosopher and literati of America. Walden is one of his most famous works. It recorded his thought about nature living in Walden for 2 years. This paper attempts to discover the specific forms of view of nature thought with an aim to explore aesthetic value in Thoreau’s works, and appeal for attention of modern people to ecological nature. This paper is made of 3 parts to study aesthetic value of Walden. The first part will introduce Thoreau and his work Walden. The third part will analyze spiritual contributions of Thoreau and his influence to the generation, pointing out that ecological value and practical guiding significance of Thoreau’s nature thought. According to Thoreau, he reminds human that they must attach importance to the harmony between themselves and nature as well as stimulate people’ thought protect nature.

Keywords：Thoreau  Walden  aesthetic ideology  ecological wisdom