First, discuss the idea of conformity vs. nonconformity in the works

First, discuss the idea of conformity vs. nonconformity in the works of Emerson and Thoreau. Give consideration to these things in your answer:

• how the transcendentalists view man
• Emerson's concept of "man thinking" and a "foolish consistency"
• what it means in their eyes to really be a "man" (think of Self-Reliance and the "different drummer" quote)
• how society affects the individual
• obstacles that keep a person from truly being himself 
• the general lesson about conformity that can be drawn from the path Thoreau wore between his house and the pond
• how Thoreau defines true success
• Thoreau's story of the beautiful bug