Analysis of Ben Franklin’s Autobiography & Poor Richard’s Almanac
Homework Questions Page 75 #1-6 What is the tone of Mark Twain’s comments about Benjamin Franklin in the blue box on page 75?
How is his writing different than Puritan writing? Consider why he writes, his religious views, his virtues/beliefs His writing reveals the emergence of American INDIVIDUALITY How is it evident that he wrote during the Age of Reason? (use your notes!)
from Poor Richard’s Almanack – page 74 Franklin gives advice about how people should behave. He uses aphorisms: brief, cleverly worded statements about that makes a wise observation about life
3 Look at #1-4 Identify the synonym of this saying: A rumor goes in one ear and out many mouths. 3
True or False (according to Ben) answer on your homework Read #1: Even close friends need some privacy from each other. Read #2: A mind is a terrible thing to waste Read #8: Live for tomorrow Read #14: May all your wishes come true Read #17: There is dignity in hard work.
Implied metaphors Metaphors that do not state explicitly the two things being compared Identify what each of the images mean 4: A spoonful of honey 7: Lying down with dogs 15: An empty bag 16: A small leak
Paradox A statement that appears self-contradictory but reveals a kind of truth Example: “I must be cruel to be kind” Hamlet Is 1 or 14 a paradox? Why?
On your homework page Explain one of his moral messages in your own words (choose one we have not yet discussed) Which aphorism reveals a healthy skepticism and humor about human nature 1,3,6,15,18,19