Cape Cod by Henry David Thoreau

Name: Cape Cod
Author: Henry David Thoreau

The narrative revolves around the author's summer sojourn on Cape Cod with his brother John. The text is divided into two parts: a geological survey of the cape and an exploration of its human history. In the first part, Thoreau describes the geology and natural features of the area, including the shoreline, dunes, and salt marshes. He notes the unique characteristics of the region's landscape, shaped by the forces of wind, water, and ice. The second part focuses on the cape's human history, from its early Native American inhabitants to the European settlers who arrived in the 17th century. Thoreau examines the impact of colonialism on the indigenous population and the development of the region's economy and culture. Throughout the text, Thoreau reflects on the relationship between humans and their environment, highlighting the tension between the natural world and human activity. He also explores themes of identity, community, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

By Henry David Thoreau · First published 1865 · Genre: Travel Literature, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature · 10 chapters · 89,796 words

First lines

Wishing to get a better view than I had yet had of the ocean, which, we are told, covers more than two-thirds of the globe, but of which a man who lives a few miles inland may never see any trace, more than of another world, I made a visit to Cape Cod in October, 1849, another the succeeding June, and another to Truro in July, 1855; the first and last time with a single companion, the second time alone. I have spent, in all, about three weeks on the Cape; walked from Eastham to Provincetown twice on the Atlantic side, and once on the Bay side also, excepting four or five miles, and crossed the Cape half a dozen times on my way; but having come so fresh to the sea, I have got but little salted. My readers must expect only so much saltness as the land breeze acquires from blowing over an arm of the sea, or is tasted on the windows and the bark of trees twenty miles inland, after September gales.

What this Textopian page supports

Cape Cod is listed on Textopian as a novel by Henry David Thoreau, dated 1865 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Henry David Thoreau
Date: 1865 CE
Language: English
Genres: Travel Literature, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature, Non-fiction, American Literature
Length: 89,796 words
Structure: 10 chapters, 780 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Travel Literature — The book is a detailed account of the author's journey and observations along the Cape Cod coastline.
Nature Writing — The narrative focuses extensively on the natural environment, landscapes, and ecosystems of Cape Cod.
Philosophical Literature — The text includes reflections on human existence and the relationship between humans and nature.
Non-fiction — The book is based on real experiences and observations, providing factual descriptions of the region.