2.15.2008
Thoreau's Journal: 15-Feb-1852
Perhaps I am descended from that Northman named “Thorer the Dog-footed.” Thorer Hund—“he was the most powerful man in the North”—to judge from his name belonged to the same family. Thorer is one of the most, if not the most, common name in the chronicles of the Northmen.
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6 comments:
In this post, Thoreau wonders about his family name and his descendants. I often think about this same thing, but my family seems to know nothing about where we came from. It is very frustrating.
I think Graham is correct. Thoreau discusses the name of his believed relative. Perhaps he is even questioning how definite something like a name really is. It is very hard to tell from whom you are descended without carefully documented evidence, otherwise your trapped going by only a name.
In a way, it is almost nice not to know where you come from because you have no preconceived notions about who you need to become.
I agree with Ariel. But at the same time, knowing some of your history can be important. It doesn't mean that you need to fit in to your family's lifestyle and history. Everyone is unique in some way, but we also get alot of traits from our families and genetics.
That said, I think Thoreau might be stretching it a little. Just because his name and Thorer kind of sound alike doesn't mean they were related.
Thoraeu is extremely curious about his existence and how he came about. He wants to find all the answers to life and this is an example of one he thinks he has found.
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