# Endnotes explained — Essays

> Chapter companion for Essays by Henry David Thoreau.

## What happens

This chapter provides editorial endnotes and commentary on Thoreau's writings, including notes on Sir Walter Raleigh's poetry and prose, historical context about Raleigh's life, and references to other literary figures such as Sidney, Marlowe, and Bruno.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Role of the Poet and Writer

The endnotes highlight Raleigh's poetic prose and Thoreau's recognition of it, emphasizing the poet's craft.

### Nature and Simplicity

The poem 'A Description of the Country’s Recreations' extols the virtues of rural life over courtly pursuits.

## Character check-ins

### Henry David Thoreau

Thoreau is cited for his commentary on Raleigh's prose, calling a passage a 'poem'.

### Sir Walter Raleigh

Raleigh is the central figure of the endnotes, with discussions of his poetry, prose, and historical anecdotes.

### F. B. Sanborn

Sanborn provides editorial commentary and historical context throughout the endnotes.

### Sir Philip Sidney

Sidney is referenced in relation to Raleigh and the influence of stars in poetry.

### Marlowe

Marlowe is mentioned as a friend of Raleigh who was also accused of atheism.

### Giordano Bruno

Bruno is noted as part of the English circle associated with Raleigh and Sidney.

### Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth is mentioned in the anecdote about Raleigh requesting Sherborne Castle.

### Alexander Milne

Alexander is referenced in the context of Raleigh's half-brother and the riding incident.

## Key lines

> And so poetical is his prose at times, that Thoreau very properly calls the passage on the decay of oracles a 'poem.'

Thoreau rightly describes Raleigh's prose as poetic, especially the part about the decay of oracles.

_Sanborn notes Thoreau's appreciation of Raleigh's literary style._

> Go, soul, the body’s guest, Upon a thankless errand; Fear not to touch the best The truth shall be thy warrant Go, since I needs must die, And give them all the lie.

The soul is urged to speak truth fearlessly, even in the face of death.

_Opening lines of Raleigh's poem 'The Soul's Errand' (also known as 'The Lie')._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/essays_2_se/chapters/endnotes
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/essays_2_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/essays_2_se/chapters