Henry David Thoreau

HENRY DAVID THOREAU examines the life and work of the 19th-century writer in the context of antebellum New England and the larger United States, as well as through the universal themes he focused on in his writings: an individual's relationship to the state, how to live an authentic life, our connection to nature, and the impact of race on American life. Set against the political and social tensions of the mid-19th century, the film traces Thoreau's journey from his early days in Concord, Massachusetts to his deep engagement with the moral crises of his time, including industrialization, slavery, war, and environmental degradation. Through his essays, journals, and landmark works such as Walden and Civil Disobedience, he became an inspiration for generations of writers, thinkers, and activists. 

Show Info

Network: United States PBS (2026 - now)
Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays (60 min)
Status: Running
Show Type: Documentary
Genres: History
Episodes ordered: 3 episodes

Official site: www.pbs.org

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Previous Episode

Several More Lives to Live

Episode 1x03; Mar 31, 2026

After completing his two-year experiment at Walden Pond, Thoreau returns to society to test what he has learned about living responsibly. He undertakes new "experiments" as a surveyor, scientist, and abolitionist, and takes two more trips to Maine —

Previous Episodes

Episode NameAirdateTrailer
1x03: Several More Lives to LiveMar 31, 2026
1x02: Being AliveMar 30, 2026
1x01: Who are We?Mar 30, 2026
View full episode list »
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