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.
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
Posted by: Sarthak Batra
1. Benjamin Franklin's memoir is made into a compelling narrative due to his unique word choice, original writing style, and the inclusion of various interesting facts about his life, that otherwise may have never been known or discovered. His expression of his personality made it easier for me as a person to relate to him. From his informal, down to earth tone to the wit and humor that was expressed throughout the memoir, a clear, vivid, picture of Benjamin Franklin’s personality was shown. For example, here’s part of a story Benjamin Franklin shares in his autobiography about his childhood. "Accordingly, in the evening, when the workmen were gone, I assembled a number of my play-fellows, and working with them diligently like so many emmets, sometimes two or three to a stone, we brought them all away and built our little wharff. The next morning the workmen were surprised at missing the stones, which were found in our wharff" (Franklin 11). One reason that Benjamin Franklin's memoir remains popular is because it provides an interesting account of the life of a great inventor, whose inventions and discoveries have made a lasting impact on life today in modern society.
ReplyDelete2.
A). We should take the time as people to attempt to understand the viewpoints of others whose thoughts are different than ours, as well as the circumstances that shape them, in order to allow us to become more well rounded individuals, come to final conclusions with more knowledge from multiple perspectives, and present a more well rounded argument.
B). Arguments that are made for or against a post should be presented in a respectful manner. Ideas shouldn't be presented in a manner where all other ideas appear to be thought of as illogical or put down by the author of the post.
C). I agree that some light-hearted discussion is conducive to having a great classroom environment. However, I don't necessarily agree about that part about Georgia myself, because I'm not a fan of that (I don't use profanity & have friends at UGA) and am not into the rivalry as much. I do believe that the blogs should be open to light-hearted discussion, as well as having some time in class set aside at least one day out of the week for that. As we find out what we have in common, then we'll begin to come closer and become more united as a student body.