History 231: Section 1

CRN 10190
Mon Wed 7:45-9:50
Classroom Building 102
Office: Faculty Towers 201A
Instructor: Dr. Schmoll
Office Hours: MW 7-7:30am and 10-11am, Tue Thu 7-7:30
…OR MAKE AN APPOINTMENT!!!

Email: bschmoll@csub.edu
Office Phone: 654-6549

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

READING GUIDE FOR BEN FRANKLIN ...DUE IN CLASS ON WEDNESDAY


You will not turn these questions in, but they should guide your reading and aid your understanding of this book. The more specific page numbers you write down, the better our discussion will be and the better you will begin to grapple with the book in ways that will help you on the midterm.

1. Describe the tone of this autobiography. Point to examples of Franklin’s tone sounding arrogant. Point to examples of Franklin’s humility.
2.     How would you describe young Ben's attitude toward education, work, and financial success?  Give an example or two to illustrate your answer.

3.     In Part 3 of the Autobiography Franklin reflects on the problems encountered when governments are in the hands of people who pursue their own private interests at the expense of the public good.  What solution does he advocate?  How realistic do you think it is? 

4.     Give some examples of how Franklin spends his time making society better. Why do you think he does this? What is the purpose of the Junto club?

5.     Give some examples of how Franklin spends time trying to improve himself.

6.     What was Franklin’s daily life like?

7.     Describe Franklin’s religious beliefs. What does the passage about George Whitefield say about Franklin’s view of religion?

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