Choose two authors from the early American and Colonial period. Identify what they wrote and, in one to three paragraphs, compare their purpose, audience, and style. (25 points
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Two authors from the early American and Colonial period are Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine. Benjamin Franklin is known for his autobiography, which he wrote from 1771 to 1790. His purpose was to share his life's experiences and lessons with future generations, aiming to inspire and provide guidance. The intended audience for his autobiography was primarily young people seeking self-improvement and aspiring to achieve success.
In contrast, Thomas Paine is famous for his influential pamphlet "Common Sense," published in 1776. Paine's purpose was to ignite revolutionary sentiment and encourage the American colonists to seek independence from Britain. His primary audience was the colonists who were frustrated with British rule and were open to the idea of revolution. Paine used a persuasive and confrontational style to appeal to his audience's emotions and rally support for the cause of independence.
While both Franklin and Paine wrote during the same historical period, their purposes, audiences, and styles differ significantly. Franklin's purpose was more personal and introspective, intending to educate and inspire individuals to lead fulfilling lives. His audience was primarily the younger generation, who could benefit from his wisdom and experiences. In contrast, Paine's purpose was more political and revolutionary, aiming to galvanize the American colonists towards independence. His audience was a broader group of colonists seeking a radical change in the political landscape.
In terms of style, Franklin approached his autobiography with a practical and instructive tone, using anecdotal stories and reflections to convey his message. Paine, on the other hand, adopted a more passionate and persuasive style in "Common Sense," using bold and forceful language to challenge the colonists and provoke their emotions. Paine's style was characterized by its straightforwardness and its ability to cut through the complexities of political debate.
In conclusion, while both Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine were influential authors during the early American and Colonial period, their purposes, audiences, and styles differed significantly. Franklin aimed to educate and inspire through his autobiography, targeting a younger audience seeking personal growth. In contrast, Paine sought to incite revolutionary sentiment in the colonists, using direct and persuasive language to push for independence. Their differing styles reflected the diverse nature of their purposes and audiences, with Franklin adopting a more introspective tone and Paine using a more confrontational style.
To compare two authors from the early American and Colonial period, let's focus on two prominent figures, namely Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine.
Benjamin Franklin, an esteemed statesman and inventor, wrote various works such as "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin" and "Poor Richard's Almanack." His purpose was to inform and inspire his readers by sharing his life experiences and imparting practical wisdom through his aphorisms. Franklin aimed to educate and motivate his audience towards self-improvement and the pursuit of success. His relatable anecdotes and common-sense advice appealed to a broad range of readers, including the general public and aspiring individuals. Franklin's writing style was characterized by its simplicity, wit, and engaging storytelling, making it accessible to a wide audience.
In contrast, Thomas Paine, a political activist and philosopher, wrote influential works such as "Common Sense" and "The American Crisis." Paine's purpose was to incite revolutionary fervor and advocate for independence from British rule. His target audience consisted primarily of American colonists who were seeking political independence and were disillusioned with British governance. Paine employed a persuasive and passionate writing style to sway the emotions and beliefs of his audience. His rhetoric was powerful and direct, using accessible language and logical arguments to appeal to the common people and ignite their rebellious spirit.
While both Franklin and Paine were influential writers of their era, they differed in their purposes, intended audiences, and writing styles. Franklin focused on personal growth and disseminated practical advice to a wide range of readers, while Paine aimed to galvanize the colonists towards political liberation. Franklin embraced a more lighthearted and engaging writing style, whereas Paine tapped into the emotions of his audience by employing persuasive language and impassioned appeals. Overall, these two authors contributed significantly to the shaping of early American thought and ideals.