What is "The Thinker" actually thinking about? - Noah Charney
TED-Ed • 2026-04-14T15:01:06Z • 5:56:00 • intermediate • Culture
Lead
Have you ever wondered what the iconic sculpture 'The Thinker' is truly contemplating? Dive into the fascinating backstory of this masterpiece and its creator, Auguste Rodin.
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Vocabulary
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canonical
/kəˈnænɪkəl/
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Definition
Conforming to a general rule or acceptable procedure; established as a standard.
Example
The canonical texts of the Bible are widely studied in religious studies.
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obsessed
/əbˈsɛst/
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Definition
Preoccupy or fill the mind of someone continually, intrusively, and to a troubling extent.
Example
She was obsessed with finding the perfect dress for the wedding.
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antithesis
/ænˈtɪθɪsɪs/
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Definition
A person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else.
Example
His calm demeanor was the antithesis of her frantic energy.
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infernal
/ɪnˈfɜrnəl/
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Definition
Relating to hell; hellish or fiendish.
Example
The infernal heat of the desert made the journey unbearable.
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patina
/pəˈtiːnə/
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Definition
A thin layer that forms on the surface of something, often used to describe the green film that forms on copper over time.
Example
The statue had a beautiful patina that added to its antique charm.
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wrestling
/ˈrɛslɪŋ/
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Definition
To engage in a struggle or contest for power or control; to grapple with.
Example
He was wrestling with his thoughts about the future.
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