Civil Disobedience Characters

Henry David Thoreau is the narrator of “Civil Disobedience.” He writes the essay as a concerned and discontented American citizen, who feels it is his duty and right to critique the American government’s actions, rebel… read analysis of Henry David Thoreau

The American Government is the chief antagonist of Thoreau and the American people. It is the government’s actions that Thoreau is most concerned with in the essay—in fact, they’re the reason he pens the… read analysis of The American Government

The American people are Thoreau’s intended audience in “Civil Disobedience.” They are his fellow citizens, and Thoreau has big expectations for them. Though he believes in their goodness and their impulse toward justice, he also… read analysis of The American People

The Prisoner is Thoreau’s roommate during the only night Thoreau spends in prison for refusing to pay the poll tax. He is Thoreau’s companion as well as his guide to navigating a night in prison… read analysis of The Prisoner