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Boston

From Poems by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) was an American essayist, lecturer and poet, and a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement. 'Boston' is a civic ode celebrating the history, character and ideals of his native city, tracing its story from the Puritan settlement through the Revolution to the industrial present. First published in the mid-nineteenth century, the poem is both a piece of local pride and a meditation on the principles — liberty, equality, honest work — that Emerson believed should govern any free community. It is worth a young reader's time because it shows how a poet can turn history into argument, and because the questions it raises about citizenship, freedom and mutual responsibility remain urgent. This text reflects its era.

Band

Blue · Independent readers, confidentTypical starting range: ages 12–14

Length

long · about 1062 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Poems, Ralph Waldo Emerson

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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