The Age of Reason & Revolution (The American Enlightenment)

Overview Literature of the Age of Reason & Revolution/American Enlightenment reflected the tumultuous times during which the thirteen colonies declared independence from Britain. The literature produced in this era marked a major shift from a focus on religion to a more worldly, rational, and patriotic style. The philosophies of John Locke were highly influential.

Timeline (1754-1763): French & Indian War decreased allegiance to G.B (1764-1767) Multiple Acts passed to suppress colonial individualism shift in attitude towards G.B. (taxation w/o representation) (1776) Common Sense (Thomas Paine) induces patriotism Declaration of Independence (document) expression of reasons for separation

Important Beliefs Taxation without representation American identity and independence Mankind is inherently good and rational Improvements in science and technology Creating a new democracy A new United States of America Deism – the rational existence of God Moral choice, virtue, inquiry

Key Traits of Writing Metaphors and Analogies Biblical Allusions Diction: Middle Oratory Aphorisms (Poor Richard’s Almanac) Ethos/Logos

Forms of Literature Political documents Revolutionary oratory Almanacs Informative publications ** Notice: STILL all nonfiction

Notable Works Declaration of Independence (Thomas Jefferson) Common Sense (Thomas Paine) Poor Richard’s Almanack (Benjamin Franklin) “A Speech to the Virginia Assembly” (Patrick Henry) Autobiography (Benjamin Franklin)

Thomas Jefferson Wrote Declaration of Independence Was influential in writing of other key governmental documents (Founding Fathers) Was known for his mastery of language His reputation helped him become President of the United States

Benjamin Franklin A polymath (fluent in many fields) Many ingenious inventions Noted politician (ambassador to France) Began publishing Poor Richard’s Almanac in 1733 Grandfather of the American aphorism

Thomas Paine Noted for his passionate support of American independence (“The Crisis”) Used pathos more than most authors at this time His works convinced many to join the fight for independence Known as the Father of the American Revolution