Thoreau submits an essay on the prompt “We are apt to become what others, (however erroneously) think us to be; hence another motive to guard against the power of others’ unfavorable opinion,” for a class assignment given him on 17 January. Thoreau is also given the prompt for his next essay, “On what grounds may the form, ceremonies and restraints of polite society be objected to? Speak of some of them. What purpose are they intended to answer?” due on 14 February.