Which Individual, Edwards Or Franklin, Best Exemplifies Them ✓ Solved

Which individual, Edwards or Franklin, best exemplifies the

Now that you have read Jonathan Edwards, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” (1741), viewed at least a portion of the "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" video, and read Benjamin Franklin, “The Way to Wealth” (1758), please write a short paragraph. Which individual, Edwards or Franklin, best exemplifies the spirit and essence of British North America during the middle years of the 18th Century? Your response should be about a double-spaced typed page (about 300 words) in length. As you compose your answer, make certain to include specific information from the readings.

Paper For Above Instructions

The middle years of the 18th century were a period of significant transformation in British North America, characterized by evolving cultural, social, and economic landscapes. Among the prominent figures of this era, Jonathan Edwards and Benjamin Franklin represent contrasting ideologies and perspectives that collectively illustrate the dynamic spirit of the times. However, it can be argued that Benjamin Franklin best exemplifies the essence of British North America during this period.

Jonathan Edwards, known for his fire-and-brimstone sermons, particularly “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” presents a worldview steeped in Puritanical beliefs, emphasizing the dire consequences of sin and the centrality of divine judgment. His rhetoric aimed to provoke a spiritual awakening among the colonists, reflecting the deeply ingrained religious sentiments of the time. Edwards’ emphasis on the individual's moral condition underscores the importance of piety, self-examination, and accountability to a higher power (Edwards, 1741). While his influence on the Great Awakening undoubtedly contributed to a revival of religious fervor in the colonies, his message remains primarily rooted in the spiritual and moral struggles of the individual.

In contrast, Benjamin Franklin represents the pragmatic and rational spirit that characterized the Enlightenment not only in Britain but also in its American colonies. In “The Way to Wealth,” Franklin articulates a philosophy grounded in industriousness, frugality, and self-improvement, urging individuals to take personal responsibility for their economic success. His famous aphorisms such as “Time is money” and “A penny saved is a penny earned” resonate with the burgeoning capitalist ethos developing in British North America (Franklin, 1758). Franklin's contributions extend beyond economic pursuits; he was also a prominent advocate for education and civic engagement, promoting the idea that individuals could effect positive change through collective endeavors.

The contrast between Edwards and Franklin highlights a broader cultural shift within the colonies. Edwards’ emphasis on a personal relationship with God through repentance and moral rigor contrasts sharply with Franklin’s practical approach to life and success. While Edwards aims to inspire a return to spiritual roots, Franklin appeals to the logic of progress and personal agency, reflecting the aspirations of a society increasingly focused on individual potential and opportunity.

Furthermore, Franklin’s entrepreneurial spirit aligns with the economic aspirations of his contemporaries, who sought to carve out their place in a rapidly changing world. His establishment of institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and his involvement in the founding of public libraries demonstrate his commitment to enlightenment principles, promoting knowledge and democratic values (Lepore, 2009). As colonial America began to embrace ideas of liberty and self-governance, Franklin's thoughts and actions personified the aspirations of a society eager to innovate and thrive.

In essence, while Jonathan Edwards provided a vital reminder of the spiritual struggles of the era, it is Benjamin Franklin's embodiment of Enlightenment ideals and the practicality of self-governance that truly encapsulates the spirit of British North America during the middle years of the 18th century. The duality of these two figures reflects not just the religious fervor of the period but also the emerging values of progress, rationality, and individualism that would define the American identity going forward.

References

• Edwards, Jonathan. (1741). "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
• Franklin, Benjamin. (1758). "The Way to Wealth."
• Lepore, Jill. (2009). "The Book of Ages: The Life and Opinions of Jane Franklin."
• Wood, Gordon S. (1992). "The Radicalism of the American Revolution."
• Fischer, David Hackett. (2004). "Albion's Seed: Four British Folkways in America."
• Middlekauff, Robert. (2005). "The Glory of the Revolution: The Making of the American Republic."
• Bailyn, Bernard. (1992). "The Ideological Origins of the American Revolution."
• Isenberg, Nancy. (2001). "Sex and Citizenship in Antebellum America."
• Raab, Joshua. (2003). "The Popular Political Culture of the Colonial America."
• Rothbard, Murray N. (2007). "For a New Liberty: The Libertarian Manifesto."