Joe Polis Teaches Thoreau the Penobscot View of Nature
Throughout his life, Thoreau had been fascinated by Indigenous culture. As he and a friend set out on another excursion to Maine, he hires Joe Polis as a guide. Polis is a Penobscot leader, and throughout the trip, he teaches Thoreau about the Penobscot culture, language and way of life. Thoreau leaves Maine with a deeper appreciation for what it means to live in your native ground.
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Who Are We? - S1 E1
As the nation struggles with its ideals and industry reshapes the land, Henry David Thoreau pursues a career as an author. But, unsuccessful and disheartened, he retreats to a cabin in the woods to live simply, deliberately - and write.
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 2:00 am ET on KET
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 1:00 am CT on KET
Being Alive - S1 E2
At Walden Pond, Thoreau finds solace in nature and writes two books, including a classic about his time there. Over his two-year stay, an expedition to Maine and an act of civil disobedience protesting slavery reshape his idea of freedom.
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 3:00 am ET on KET
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 2:00 am CT on KET
Several More Lives to Live - S1 E3
Thoreau returns to society to test what he learned at Walden, taking on roles as surveyor, scientist and abolitionist, and making two more Maine trips - gaining deeper insights. Facing a lifelong illness, he writes with renewed urgency.
- Thursday April 2, 2026 2:00 am ET on KET
- Thursday April 2, 2026 1:00 am CT on KET
Recent
Several More Lives to Live - S1 E3
- Tuesday March 31, 2026 9:00 pm ET on KET
- Tuesday March 31, 2026 8:00 pm CT on KET
Being Alive - S1 E2
- Monday March 30, 2026 10:00 pm ET on KET
- Monday March 30, 2026 9:00 pm CT on KET
Who Are We? - S1 E1
- Monday March 30, 2026 9:00 pm ET on KET
- Monday March 30, 2026 8:00 pm CT on KET
