Final answer:
Emerson's "Self-Reliance" emphasizes the philosophical aspect of individuality and nonconformity, while Thoreau's Walden provides a practical account of living simply and deliberately in nature. Their works showcase different nuances of individualism within the transcendentalist movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau both explored themes of individuality and self-reliance, but they did so through different approaches. Emerson's essay "Self-Reliance" focuses on an abstract philosophical concept of nonconformity and intense self-trust, urging readers to avoid mass conformity and mediocrity and to think for themselves. Contrary to Emerson’s more philosophical approach, Thoreau’s Walden offers a concrete example by detailing his personal experiences of living simply in nature. He emphasizes living deliberately, supporting oneself, and experiencing the value of simplicity directly, thus putting Emerson's ideas into practiced living.
Both works contribute significantly to the transcendentalist movement, exalting the dignity of the individual and American ideals of freedom, optimism, and self-reliance. Yet, their methods of exploring themes of individualism diverge, with Emerson providing philosophical rhetoric against societal norms and Thoreau providing a practical demonstration of a life lived outside societal expectations. Thoreau's insistence on freedom from government and society in Walden and his emphasis on simple living show a different nuanced take on individualism compared to Emerson's broad call for nonconformity in "Self-Reliance".
Therefore, the correct answer to the question would be Option C: Emerson describes famous thinkers and artists, while Thoreau describes personal experiences.