A 4 page essay that argues that Benjamin Franklin's autobiography offers readers insight into the eighteenth century. In his introduction to Benjamin Franklin's autobiography, Louis P. Masur comments that the text gives the reader insight into understanding the social context of the eighteenth century (2003, p. 7). Examination of Franklin's text shows that Masur's assessment is extremely accurate, as Franklin's account of his life aids the modern reader in understanding the worldview of American colonial intellectuals. In particular, Franklin portrays the eighteenth century emphasis on reason and rationality, which was the fundamental precept of the Enlightenment. No additional sources cited.
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