Response to Douglass Narrative

Though I am the last to respond, I still have my insights of what each of you discussed. After reading the narrative, I feel as though everything Douglass had to endure from his master just pushes him further in his road to literacy, which was looked down upon by whites of the time, primarily Mr. Auld. To me, this example reinforces my interpretation of what slaves had to go through during the time period and to see how Douglass still pursued his goals with threats constantly bearing down on him for trying to read is remarkable; seeing this determination shows that he will probably never fail at what he does.

Going back to Lauren’s question, I would have to “slightly” disagree because I find that the things that happen to Douglass are a sign of divine intervention, which can be interpreted as luck. He remarkably survives the brutality of his masters and even fights Mr. Covey and wins to show that there was another force aiding him, for there may not have been another slave in that time period who could do such a thing.

Sarthak, I agree with your statement “I strongly feel that this narrative supports…intellectual freedom…” because since Douglass began to learn to read at an early age as well as the fact he went against orthodoxy, he has raised the bar for those to follow in his footsteps (such as the slaves he met at the plantation in Chapter 11) to freedom. Though their attempt to reach freedom failed, they always had the aspiration to strive for their best which eventually led to their emancipation. Ultimately, Douglass’ strive for a better education helped not only him, but also other slaves, which shows that his education and philanthropy led to the better-living of many other slaves.

In general, I believe that this narrative gives the reader a message that, with determination and conviction, anybody can become successful and respected just like the way Douglass was respected during his time and for many more years to come.

Fredrick Douglass

Sarthak and Lauren both made key points in the elements Fredrick used to escape the chains of slavery. He did have and incredible determination, one for a better life no matter what his master's tried to make him believe. At one point he was earning his own money practicing a trade he enjoyed yet he knew it was just a guise placed in front of him to deter him from actual freedom. Lauren also made a valid comment on the luck that Douglass required. After reading these additional statements another thought came to my mind, that of Fredrick's patience. This also plays back to his intellect that gave him the ability to determine the right time at which to carry out his plan. I believe in the text he states it was four years from the time he decided to achieve freedom to when it actually came to fruition. All together I believe Douglass' determination, patience, and even a little luck were the necessary tools that paved the way to his freedom and made him as we know him today.

My thoughts about Douglass Narrative

I agree with all of with all of your viewpoints. I also believe that the way that Fredrick Douglass chose to handle his harsh environment by persevering through it showed his strength of character and determination. His strength and virtuous character was shown in his writing, in which he was able to view people in an unbiased manner, that is honest and inoffensive, saying both the good and the bad about the people over him while he was a slave, and sharing positive and negative traits of the slaves he was around, while leaving the interpretation largely up to the reader. The story is kept interesting because it is told in a way that captivates. When I read this story, it was like I could see myself there, as a witness to what was going on at the time. There was a great use of vocabulary and imagery throughout.

Through this story, I began to remember the previous information I had read about slavery, and think about what the mentality of some of the overseers and slave masters must have been to commit such cruelty towards other people. In some cases it seemed as though black people were not thought of as human by some of the white people of that time. Others seemed to be against slavery, while there were some who were in the middle. I believe that Fredrick Douglass's belief in God gave him the strength and determination he needed to overcome his environment, and that God chose to use him to great things during his time. God opened up doors of opportunity for Douglass to do this by causing him to be accepted to go onto the boat for Baltimore. When Douglass says, “From my earliest recollection, I date the entertainment of a deep conviction that slavery would not always be able to hold me within its foul embrace; and in the darkest hours of my career in slavery, this living word of faith and spirit of hope departed not from me, but remained like ministering angels to cheer me through the gloom. This good spirit was from God, and to him I offer thanksgiving and praise” (Douglass – Chapter 5) I can relate to that, because of my own faith in God, and the own tough personal experiences I’ve had in my own life that I attribute prayer and my faith in God to getting delivered from. There have been times in my life where I’ve felt a strength and peace on the inside that was stronger than my own natural strength, which allowed me to endure through challenges when I would’ve given up and comforted me in times of trouble. These moments have strengthened my faith in God, and caused me to seek after Him even more. Douglass’ mentioned of God was a key part of the story for me.

Much can learnt about determination, faith, the importance of having a mindset for greatness, communicating effectively, withstanding peer pressure, and virtue of character through this narrative. Douglass’s character shone through when he thought of the importance of freeing the other slaves and ending slavery, instead of just thinking of getting freedom for himself. Ms. Auld changed from kind to harsh because of pressure from her husband. Frederick Douglass had to resist peer pressure from other slaves to avoid settling and lowering his goals. I believe that this entire story serves as a lesson on morals and life.

I agree Sarthak, that Douglass' endless determination was the cause of his success overall. I just couldnt help but ignore how he seemed to be in the right place at the right time. He even said, after being sent from his original home to a new home that his master could have picked anybody on that farm, but he was lucky enough to be chosen. Had he not changed homes, he may never have gotten the idea into his head that knowledge would be power. Had he not changed homes, he would never have gotten his foot in the door by learning to read a few words and letters. His determination was doubtlessly the reason he was so successful, he could have ignored all of this luck and ended up as any other slave, but his string of circumstances was very fortunate.

Homework 2 (Fredrick Douglass' Narrative)

I quite agree with Jason's discomfort in accepting the fact that Douglass had trouble leaving his friends behind while planning to escape. It seemed certain that after being exposed to ruthlessness and cruelties of unfathomable magnitude, one would blindly take any route to escape oppression without giving the slightest thought to his/her friends. Apart from the insecurity about the future which Lauren clearly mentions, I believe that Douglass' personality had a lot to do with decisions like these. In fact, I also feel Douglass' true character is subtly reflected in his narrative which can be categorized as genuine, warm and unbiased. It baffles me how he has can spare words of praise for some of his masters who have at some point brought him extreme misery, inflicted hardships and encouraged suicidal tendencies. Do tell me if you feel the same way about the last two points I mentioned.

Lauren, you raise a very valid point. Even though Douglass was observant, inquisitive and availed the benefit of education which gave him an edge over his friends to succeed in his endeavors, I'd term Douglass fortunate enough to escape the wrath of his masters and to also be able to live a respectable and considerably hassle free later on. But one must also realize that there are few crucial instances where Douglass's luck runs but his endless supply of determination and hope for a new existence keep him going.

I strongly feel that this narrative supports the fact that intellectual freedom leads to, perhaps not instantaneously, enlightenment, respect and lastly overall freedom at some point of time in one's life and thus, it is highly necessary that everyone has equal access to education and other resources. Do share what you guys think about this and mention what you learnt the most from this narrative.

Posted by: Sarthak Batra

Jason, you made a good point about Douglass' friendships. I mean, if any of us had experienced opression to that extent, it would seem obvious that we would give up anything to get out. The only explanation I can think of is that maybe he didn't know if things would work out for him when he left. For example, history tells us now that he ended up being free and was able to write a novel and be an inspiration to many people of his time. However, as he was leaving a "home" that he had gotten used to, he may not have known that things would work out for him tomorrow or next week. His friends were the only guaranteed things he had and its always hard to give those up, no matter what the reward may or may not be down the line.

As I was reading his novel, I kept thinking about how much luck played into Douglass' life and story. Does anybody else agree?

Fredrick Douglass

Life as a slave was undoubtedly tough, a drastic understatement, but the fact that Douglass was able to teach himself to read and write under such conditions proves a lot about him. His intellect far surpasses that of his masters, which from the master's point of view would be completely unheard of. It is proven when his master becomes furious when he finds out that Fredrick is trying to become educated and Fredrick comments "I was gladdened by the invaluable instruction which, by the merest accident, I had gained from my master." (Douglass ch. 6). The irony is that the ones keeping him captive gave him the key to his freedom without realization. To have no formal education and be treated as less than human and be able to ascertain assumptions such as this demonstrates Fredrick's natural depth of mind that is leagues apart from that of his master's. One thing I had difficulty understanding is why did Douglass have trouble leaving friends behind? Such that it almost made escaping seem less appealing?

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

AS I read Benjamin Franklin Autobiography, most thing stood out to me came from pages “the passing moments of it have been enlivened with content and enjoyment instead of being tormented with foolish impatience or regrets. Such a conduct is easy for those who make virtue and themselves in countenance by examples of other truly great men, of whom patience is so often the characteristic” (74-75) Franklin lives life with no regrets and he has very good patience and it is said that every great man has good patience. This quote relates to me because of my recent football injury where I hurt my foot. I’ve worked out all summer to prepare for this upcoming football session and the first week of camp I broke my foot. I don’t regret that I worked out all summer, but by breaking my foot I’m going to miss this upcoming football session. I’m not mad or upset because I have great patience and believe this will make me stronger in the long run. This is a memoir because Benjamin Franklin reveals stories about his life. It is easy to relate to and not too hard to read.
Tips for discussion
1. Have an understanding that everyone has their own point of view and we must respect our differences
2. Be mature so that everyone is comfortable answering and being part of the discussion.

Franklin and Class Rules

Franklin’s Memoir
Although Franklin’s Autobiography is difficult to read from a language standpoint, the passages feel like an actual conversation with him. His memoir him feel more human and less hero to me, especialy when he added personal retrospect into the writing, such as, “This was another of the great errata of my life, which I should wish to correct if I were to live it over again” (page 44). I think what stands out the most about his memoir is the casual style in which he writes, throwing in small anecdotes and bits of humor. This is the quality that makes his autobiography so commonly read, because he makes it enjoyable. Also, his emphasis on honesty and friendship helps the reader have a better understanding of this American Hero.

Class Rules
1) Don’t be too sensitive. While it is important that everybody take others into consideration during conversation, we won’t get anywhere if people can’t share their opinion without being attacked.

2) It is important that you let somebody finish their comment or argument before you interrupt them. Think twice before you interrupt somebody’s comment, because you may be misunderstanding them.

ENGL 1101-P2

1. I think that Benjamin Franklin’s memoir has survived the tests of time, firstly because it gives us insight into one of the most intriguing minds of the 17th century and also because it gives us a firsthand account of all the events surrounding the Civil War. Through Franklin’s memoir, it becomes quite lucid how much he aspires to integrate in himself his father’s honesty, perseverance and his ability to make level headed decisions. Humility and honesty are constant traits emphasized by the author, such as when Franklin was caught taking stones from a nearby construction site to make a wharf. His father then told him “nothing was useful which was not honest” (pg 12). Franklin’s prose throughout his autobiography has been colloquial, while at the same time maintaining control over the flow of his writing. His tone is quite authoritative, although in some cases it becomes personal but he still maintains the tone of a teacher. He uses third person for the event of his past, showing his audience that he maintains an objective view of the text. His tone also has a touch of sarcasm and light humor, like when he hints at his disability to do math. This humanizes him, and helps his writing better connect to any audience. All the above factors combined make Benjamin Franklin’s memoir a compelling read.

2. A. Don’t use words like ‘wrong’, say you ‘disagree’ instead. Your opinion may not be the same as everyone else’s.

B. Even though you may not agree with someone else’s point of view, give their opinion some thought.

English 101 Homework

Even though it was 200 years ago that Benjamin Franklin wrote about his life to his son, his work is still captivating to the latest generation of humans due to his brilliant unique style of writing that makes one feel like getting advice from your own father. He shows his son, and subsequently us, how to live an ideal life by learning from the mistakes that his father made. His extremely personal account of everything in his life - from his romantic interests to his religious beliefs - endears him to the reader. His autobiography is like a modern self improvement book that shows how one can rise above others from the very bottom. I personally thought that the book would be a little boring classic style of writing but it was the very opposite - enticing and a neo-classic unique style that I have never encountered before. Personally, I am very sorry that the memoir is unfinished because it would have been absolutely marvelous to read about his whole life and learn how to transform myself into a better individual and not repeat the mistakes that he did during his lifetime.

Guidelines for respectful conversation while talking about a sensitive topic.
1. One should always hear the other person out and then imagine himself/herself in the other persons shoes and try to understand why they are taking that side of the argument.
2. When talking to a person of a different cultural background, one should always be aware of what is considered offensive in their language and avoid talking or implying about topics that are considered rude.

Franklin Part 1

1. 1. As I read Benjamin Franklin’s two things really stuck out to me, the first was the opening phrase “DEAR SON” (5), the other was the “little anecdotes of [his] ancestors” (5). The words “dear son” really gives this piece a personnel tone. The reader instantly feels a connection with Franklin, a feeling that Franklin is talking to them, as if they were his own children. The opening is also unique in that instead of starting from the beginning of his life he begins by talking about the life great grandfather and everything before his birth, only after this does he start to talk about his own life. His account of his life is chronological, which makes the piece easy to follow. He makes it clear that since he was able to climb up the social ladder, anyone else can too. His memoir is basically another American rags to riches story.

2. 2. Respect the speaker, even if you don’t agree with what they are saying.

Don’t be afraid to speak up, you may have a good argument or insight.

response to question1&2

Response to 1
The part 1 of the autibiograph introduced the early

life of the great politician in a simple yet persuasive

style,  which  gives readers a direct access to his

mind. I can clearly see Franklin's love for reading,

his struggle to excell.I can also feel his eargerness

to live a life of his own as an 20-year-old(leaving his

brother..), how he treasured friendship and the

affection for Miss Read, how he regretted losing them.
And he also stressed the importance of planning early, which can be a especislly good suggestion for young readers.(
Perhaps the most important part of that journal is the

plan to be found in it, which I formed at sea, for

regulating my future conduct in life. It is the more

remarkable, as being formed when I was so young, and

yet being pretty faithfully adhered to quite thro' to

old age. )

The frankness and true emotion in his words are factors

that make his memoir so successful.






Response to 2

1.every student's work should be meet with respect, and no words such as"silly","stupid" should be used in a comment.
2.For students whose grammar and vocabulary are not so good, it would be good if some one point it out in a comment in a respectful manner.

Ben Frank's Autobiography/Class Guidelines

1.) Honestly, I was a little intimidated when I first opened the link to the autobiography because of the length and the way Franklin wrote it, but as I got into it, I realized it's just him having a conversation on a piece of paper. I thought it was interesting how Benjamin Franklin begins by talking to his son and of his family because it supposed to be his memoir, not theirs. I liked how Franklin took time to poke fun at himself and other men his age by mentioning that he likes to talk about his life and that he understands that others may grow tired of that. His small instances of humor made it seem not so serious and for me, a little easier to read. While the piece is difficult to read, Franklin’s focus and attention paid to the smaller details of his life helped to fill in parts that I didn’t understand when he first mentioned them.

2.) a. If you read something the you don't necessarily agree with, remember that you don't have to. Being tolerant and accepting are two different things. By being tolerant, you're just acknowledging another's opinion without agreeing or taking sides.

b. Whether it's on the blog or an in-class discussion, try to get an understanding of what someone is trying to say before jumping on them or their argument. There is a chance you could have taken what they said out of context so just ask them to clarify if you think you have it wrong.

Benjamin Franklin Autobiography

We all know Benjamin Franklin as one of the founding fathers. He seems to me as this legendary figure that I have difficulty connecting to. The beginning of his autobiography is peculiar in the sense that this larger than life hero is reaching out to me and saying “Dear Son” pg.1. These two words instantly remind me of my grandfather; instead of thinking of Benjamin Franklin as this legendary figure he turns into my grandfather. He becomes an easily relatable figure that I know. Franklin’s voice is that of a simple man recounting a story. His diction is ordinary; He makes no attempt to adorn his writing. This makes the passages much more enjoyable to read and helps strengthen the relationship with the reader. When reading the autobiography I get the sense that Franklin is next to me retelling this story. The autobiography is much more compelling due to the connection created by Franklin’s style of writing.

Discussion Guidelines 

1. Even though you disagree with another person you should still listen to their argument 
2. Accept that people have different points of view and that they maybe unchangeable
3. Try to understand everyone’s point of view  

Benjamin Franklin - part 1

Unlike most memoirs, he tells a story about emerging "from the poverty and obscurity in which [he] was born and bred, to a state of affluence and some degree of reputation in the world," (6) instead of simply listing facts. As he progresses through his story I can picture him perfectly, sitting in a wooden chair, plucking away at his typewriter, summarizing his life. I found it interesting that he developed the idea of being a vegetarian in his teens, it seems like even his simplest ideas spread worldwide. On the topic of vegetarianism, he really brags about how much dedication and work he went through to uphold the diet. Through this we begin to see aspects of his personality surfacing. For example, I feel like he is in a way insecure and trying to prove something to the reader.

Guidelines

1) Give and take constructive criticism and disagreements positively. (Don’t offend or get offended)

2) Raise your hand to talk. (To give everyone a chance to bring forth their opinion)

Franklin Homework

Benjamin Franklin's memoir is still enticing too a wide audience even to this day due to his intellect and insight. He was able to compose his work in such a way that it may transcend generations and he was quite aware of this, "through respect to age, might conceive themselves obliged to give me a hearing"(page 6). His word choice may be outdated such as 'erratum' (page 63) and the grammar from that of another time 'follow'd' (page 58). The style and eloquence that he writes with does have the ability to cross time periods consuming readers into his work in modern era, the former points being minor flaws to be looked over. The manner in which Franklin writes is one of near casual conversation at times making the reading much more agreeable to wider audience as opposed to a stuffy and verbose style, "I believe I have omitted mentioning that, in my first voyage from Boston, being becalm'd off Block Island, our people set about catching cod" (page 36). Aside from style, diction, and all the mechanics of writing the subject of the writing is also paramount to its wide appeal, one of the greatest men of American history is putting forth his life to all citizens something that all Americans can benefit from as well as appreciate.

One rule for classroom discussions should be think before you speak, something you may not think is a sensitive topic may be for some one else. Wording and topic choice should be chosen with care to avoid negative connotations.

A second rule to keep in mind is allow students to finish speaking. Just because you feel passionately about a subject does not give you the right to speak out of turn and interject before a peer finishes their thoughts.

Homework 1

1. How will it possibly benefit me to read a 240 year old autobiography of a man of such stupendous stature? In fact, the very thought of it seemed outrageous enough to close my browser. Thankfully, I didn’t. Although there is use of archaic words like 'tithe' (Page 10), 'quagmire' (Page 11), 'errata' (Page 22) to name a few, Franklin’s writing has an unique easiness about, truly realized when one when considers the period in which it was written. This easiness doesn’t make any of us uncomfortable while trying to connect with the polymath at some point of time in the memoir. Through an intelligent use of voice and tone, Franklin’s true character is brought out in the narrative which presents him as a man who, after overcoming various hardships, enjoys a position of affluence and power, but is still true to the same virtues that brought him such greatness. The memoir extensively talks about one of the founding fathers of America living the American dream which is what makes it instantly compelling.

2.
A). We shouldn’t be spontaneous with our comments. All of us should spend some time constructing our argument because our class consists of students from diverse cultures having different experiences. Not putting much thought into our comments and letting emotion sway us might offend a fellow student.

B). A light hearted discussion is most conductive for a great classroom environment. Thus, I think we should shout ‘To Hell with Georgia’ after ever class. This will make us realize that we aren’t 30 nations fighting for barrels of oil but 30 students wishing to express, engage and learn.

Posted by: Sarthak Batra

1. Franklin’s admission of his own faults at the very beginning of his autobiography first compelled me to keep reading. As a man with a “degree of reputation in the world” (6), Franklin frequently became the target of many lectures in my past history classes; however, we discussed only the positive outcomes of his vast amount of contributions. Initially seeing this book as Franklin’s way to “correct some faults” not only relieves him from his post on this high pedestal upon which historians have placed him, but also personalizes his narrative allowing me (as I cant speak for other readers) to compare myself to ‘his majesty’ (7). His organizational style of apologizing for his vanity and poor choices even before he has made a vane comment or explained a poor choice foreshadows excitement in his words that follow his opening remarks. Furthermore, his later descriptions of his family as hardworkers and of himself assisting his father in his business even though he greatly disliked it contrast this vane image that Franklin sets himself up for in the beginning and reaffirms the previous idea of him as a man who worked hard to achieve all that he did (12). This clever style, although it does not end up transforming all preconceived notions about Franklin, strengthens Franklin’s argument for his deserved fame, which is why his autobiography (or atleast part 1) can be considered a compelling narrative.

2. A) People should not be scared to provide arguments for the sake of compelling conversation, even if these are not arguments that they personally believe in. No one should feel the need to say “I don’t believe this but..”. Nothing said in class should be meant to target any specific person or gender.

B) B) As a race/gender sensitive class, certain words may be said that are socially considered offensive to these groups of people. This is ok if words are used to further the academic value of an argument.

English : Benjamin Franklin memoir part 1

(Posted for Sneha Ganesh)

He greatly respected his father, and grew up to posses quite a few traits he admired his father of possessing. He was consulted on matters of the town, he was also frequently chosen as a mediator between conflicting parties and he also choose to initiate conversation with people he thought would stimulate the minds of his children.He wanted his children to learn what was good and just in life. In a sense he was a born leader, with multiple interests and talents, but he always remained an honest and level headed man. When Benjamin Fraklin was caught while trying to make a wharf from stone that had been set aside for building a house, he was scolded by his father who told him “nothing was useful which was not honest.” ( page 12). In a sense Benjamin Franklin grew up to be a mirror of the traits he greatly admired in his father.

1. I think that Benjamin Franklin’s memoir has survived the tests of time, firstly because it gives us insight into one of the most intriguing minds of the 17th century and also because it gives us a firsthand account of all the events surrounding the Civil War. Through Franklin’s memoir, it becomes quite lucid how much he aspires to integrate in himself his father’s honesty, perseverance and his ability to make level headed decisions. Humility and honesty are constant traits emphasized by the author, such as when Franklin was caught taking stones from a nearby construction site to make a wharf. His father then told him “nothing was useful which was not honest” (pg 12). Franklin’s prose throughout his autobiography has been colloquial, while at the same time maintaining control over the flow of his writing. His tone is quite authoritative, although in some cases it becomes personal but he still maintains the tone of a teacher. He uses third person for the event of his past, showing his audience that he maintains an objective view of the text. His tone also has a touch of sarcasm and light humor, like when he hints at his disability to do math. This humanizes him, and helps his writing better connect to any audience. All the above factors combined make Benjamin Franklin’s memoir a compelling read.

2. A. Don’t use words like ‘wrong’, say you ‘disagree’ instead. Your opinion may not be the same as everyone else’s.

B. Even though you may not agree with someone else’s point of view, give their opinion some thought.

Benjamin Franklin

One characteristic of a narrative contain evident uniqueness of the writer. This characteristic is strongly presented throughout Benjamin Franklin’s memoir. We can undeniably know that it is Benjamin Franklin’s memoir because his narrative begins by a letter to his son William Franklin. Throughout the letter, Benjamin Franklin describes his childhood in a very special way. Unlike other sons, he went to a grammar school and got to join one of his family member’s businesses. His special personality is displayed through love of language arts, especially through reading. Benjamin Franklin directly states that he loved reading in second paragraph of page 15. For example, he loved reading so much that he did what was described in the book. Last paragraph of page 18 shows that he practiced vegetable diet. This shows that how much he was into reading and learning. He sought for accessibility of books and wrote while he had time. Other than passion of reading, he is very honest and candid in describing characters, not just others but also himself. Page 12 discusses about his parents’ characteristics in a very detailed manner. In addition, in page 14, he admits that he has grown old, and thus he rambles too much, reflecting himself that he used to write more methodologically (12). Fond of reading and honest character descriptions present us a special quality of Benjamin Franklin’s narrative. 


1. One should always respect and appreciate the other person’s opinion, even though one absolutely disagrees with the other because it takes courage to share opinion. 


2. We are encouraged to stay on topic and give comments that are relevant to the topic so that the discussion leads and connects with other issues and problems dealt in class. 

English Homework

1. Although Benjamin Franklin's memoir will probably always be considered a relavent and important text by its own right for its historical significance as an account of the life of one of the Founding Fathers, as well as for being one of the first written accounts of the fullfilment of the “American dream”, it is Franklin's eloquence and expertise as a writer, his lively sense of humour, and his identity as a human being that make his memoirs a compelling read. His autobiography assigns a personality and a history to his well-recognized face. By establishing this very human persona, Franklin allows the audience to create a very real connection to the man who was not only a scientist and politician and the inventor of bifocals, but who was also a child who loved to read and a man who felt superior to his boss. Franklin's memoir exposes him as a man who was proud of his own work; perhaps a little vain and a little hypocritical, but striving for humility and accepting of his faults. For all of its other merits, it is for this reason, above all others, that I personally found Franklin's memoirs an engaging read.

2. a) Even if you cannot agree with another's views, make an effort to empathize or tonunderstand their point of view.

b) Be accommodating of others and their opinions not only with your words, but also with your body language and non-verbal communication.

THE MAN BEHIND THE FACE ON THE $100 BILL

Everyone loves a good rags-to-riches story, be it that of Harry Potter creator J.K Rowling, Steve Jobs of “Apple” fame or even that of Don Vito Corleone in the the Godfather series. Something about these stories makes you want to root for the protagonist all the way to the finish line. The story of Benjamin Franklin is no different.

The readers feel an instant connection as he addresses them as “Dear Son”, something unique and different which reiterates his position as one of the Founding Fathers. His eloquent writing transports the reader to a time far behind his own and allows them to see his world through his eyes. His tone and the flashes of humor in his narrative(“By my rambling digressions..........perhaps only negligence.” [14]) help the reader connect with Franklin, adding a personal dimension to the story, which makes for a compelling read. He also personalizes the tale with things like the background of his ancestors,the inscription on his parents' grave and an excerpt from his uncle's poem. I've personally never read an autobiography or memoir, but Franklin's compelling narrative might just persuade me to do otherwise.

Things that might help in classroom discussions:

a) There usually isn't just one right answer, so respect the arguments put forth by every party.

b)Wait your turn to speak up. Don't interrupt anybody trying to make a point.