Reference no: EM133442715
Assignment:
1. What is ironic about Franklin's speech to the Constitutional Convention (given the stereotypical views many have of Franklin)? Discuss the language of this address. Do you not feel the very existence of the nation was hanging in the balance? Where does he suggest getting help and guidance?
2. Describe the tone and persona of Poor Richard the "author" of the almanack. What does having a fictional character as the author accomplish for Franklin? How does this allow him freedom to express views that might sound pompous or preachy coming directly from him?
3. What do you think of "The Way to Wealth" in terms of its advice? Find something there that goes beyond -- save and be frugal as advice for success -- share this and explain it. (Does knowing that Franklin was worth a fortune when he died change your opinion of his advice? He was able to retire at 42. He lived until 84.)
4. How you would characterize Franklin's early attempts at education and being an apprentice? Does he show the early success that his natural talents and gifts might seem to have deserved? Some have said that Franklin truly lived the American Dream. (Poor boy creates a fortune through hard work, service, and discipline.) Remember that he had no formal schooling beyond age 10. Recall how he taught himself to write. Look at those passages in his Autobiography.
5. Discuss Franklin's use of humor and self-deprecation in his writings. Give examples and explain them from the Almanack and from his Autobiography.
6. Find a video from a current financial adviser or television or internet personality (there are so many!) on how to become wealthy and successful. Post the video then give a thoughtful comparison of the teachings of the modern speaker on how to create wealth and Benjamin Franklin's advice. You may have to look deeper into his Autobiography and other writings to help you -- but Father Abraham's speech is one source.
7. Take a deeper dive into Benjamin Bannecker's life and work. Summarize some of the highlights and tell us what you think are among the most important contributions of this brilliant man. Here is a link to an earlier issue of his Almanac from the Library of Congress from the year 1792 which has an intro to Bannecker included Benjamin Bannecker's Almanack from 1792.