The American Scholar Guiding Questions 1. Who is Emerson’s audience?

2. According to Emerson, what is the relationship between the mind and nature? Cite textual evidence and explain.

3. What does Emerson argue is the “right use of books?” Cite textual evidence and explain.

4. How is the scholar educated by “action?” Cite textual evidence and explain.

5. What is the role of the scholar in society? Cite textual evidence and explain.

6. Why is the essay entitled “The American Scholar” and not just “the Scholar?”

7. What aspects of Emerson’s idea of education do you think were missing from your own schooling? Be specific.

8. If you were to write an essay with the same title today, what main points would you emphasize about being a scholar?