TheAutobiographyofBenjaminFranklinfinal

1、 The Autobiography徐路村余莹林乐伟怕缇古丽杨世明 Group MemberA. Introduction about Benjamin FranklinB. Information about the Autobiography C. Text comprehensionD. The intention of writingE. Writing stylesF. Characters in the AutobiographyG. Main thoughtsH. Significancecontent Success as an inventor and scientistLi

2、ghtning rod (避雷针避雷针)Glass armonica （玻璃琴）（玻璃琴）Franklin stove（富兰克林暖炉）（富兰克林暖炉）Bifocal glasses（双焦点眼镜）（双焦点眼镜）Urinary catheter （导尿管）（导尿管）inventionsContributions to ScienceAtlantic Ocean currentsElectricityWave theory of lightConcept of cooling Temperatures effect on electrical conductivityOceanography fin

3、dingsa.It is perhaps the first real post-revolutionary American writing as well as the first real autobiography in English. b.It gives us the record of a man rising to wealth and fame from a state of poverty and obscurity into which he was born, the faithful account of the colorful career of America

4、s first self-made man. c.It is a puritan document. The most famous section describes his scientific scheme of self-examination and self-improvement. Information about the Autobiography Part One: portrays Franklin as a young man in Boston and Philadelphia. Part Two: the controversial “art of virtue”

5、section. Here, Franklin recounts his youthful attempt to achieve “moral perfection.”FOUR part of the Autobiography Part Three: reveals how the adult Franklin uses his principles of conduct in order to perform his roles as a scientist, philanthropist and a politician. Partially due to his ability to

6、self-promote. Part Four: the complementary of the former three parts. It tells you about Franklins visit to the UK, and arrived in London in July 27th. He finishes his job and came back to Philadelphia in November 1st . Historical Background The American war of independence EnlightenmentThe intentio

7、n of writing 1. Franklin would not want to be forgotten after he was dead. He wanted through writing let his spirit last forever. And his son would like to know about his life.2. Pass down the truth of life and American spirit to later generations.The intention of writing3. The intent of telling him

8、 about his life and retrospect his life. Let later generations get to know him and be inspired. 4. Account for the major events of history as Franklin witnessed them and took part in them. The Autobiography addresses Franklins life to his own son, he claims to write only so that his own life may be

9、an example for his son of how one can live well and how one can get through hardships. Text comprehension Franklins mention of correcting some errors were he to relive his life, both indicate Franklins constant interest in self-improvement. This is perhaps the largest theme in the Autobiography; it

10、dominates Part Two and recurs often in Part One. Also notice that Franklin thanks God for helping him to lead a good life. Text comprehensionThirteen names of virtues( 2nd part)1.Temperance2.Silence3.Order 4.Resolution5.Frugality6.Industry7.Sincerity8.Justice9.Moderation10.Cleanliness11.Tranquilty12

11、.Chastity13.Humility Writing styles Plain Style: It is a practical style that makes his thought seem lucid, precise, and his advice on individual developments seem readily attainable. Humor style: Franklin attempts to poke fun at himself so as to not seem arrogant. Terse and witty style: He usually

12、makes his points using as few words as possible. Didactic style：the Autobiography is intended to be read partly as a self- help manual(手册). All in all, it is the pattern of Puritan simplicity, directness, and concision. The narrative is lucid(易懂的), the structure is simple, the imagery is homely(朴素的)

13、. an exemplary illustration of the American style of writing.Characters in the Autobiography Benjamin Franklin The author and protagonist of the Autobiography; The Autobiography tells of the major events of his life and many of his important scientific and political ideas, but the work does not disc

14、uss the American Revolution, in which Franklin was a major participant. William Franklin Benjamins son and royal governor of New Jersey in 1771 when Ben begins writing the work. Ben begins the Autobiography as a letter to William with the intent of telling him about his life. James Franklin Franklin

15、 older brother who owns a printing house in Boston. Ben is apprenticed to James when Ben is 12, and while they do not always get along very well, Ben learns much from James and proves to be quite helpful. When James is arrested for holding subversive (颠覆性的） political ideas, Ben takes over the paper

16、until James release. When Ben breaks his contract and leaves for Philadelphia, James grows angry and spiteful. Andrew Bradford A printer in Philadelphia, he is unable to hire Franklin but he does allow Franklin to stay in his house. Later on, when Franklin runs his own paper, the two are competitors

17、 until Bradford leaves the printing industry. Samuel Keimer The printer in Philadelphia for whom Franklin works. Their relationship deteriorates over time, and eventually they have a falling out. Keimer, however, tries to make amends when he realizes that Ben can supply him with important printing t

18、ools. Deborah Rea The daughter of John Read, she eventually marries Franklin even though their courtship is interrupted by his 18-month trip to England, during which time she marries another man who disappears thus allowing her marriage to Franklin. John Read A resident of Philadelphia, he houses Franklin shortly after Franklin arrives in Philadelphia. Main Thoughts Puritanism Americanism/America Dream The America dream means the spirits to obtaining proper