The Puritan And The Embodiment Of Enlightenment - 1228 Words

The Puritan and the Embodiment of Enlightenment The dichotomy between a Puritan and a Rationalist seems to be very apparent. Despite the differences, the very existence of these two writers showcases the need for dissent to influence, and to always question the status-quo. Anne Bradstreet and Benjamin Franklin give a glimpse of the time period during the creation of their works. Many factors affect their writing: gender and the reason for writing, references to non-Biblical scriptures, and the presence of God. Perhaps the most significant display of the differences during the two time periods would be the reference to God in the writers’ works. As a Puritan woman, Anne Bradstreet is through and through preached to that, the answer to†¦show more content†¦He is displaying the arising thought that was widespread during the 1700s-1800s, the Enlightenment. The Enlightenment movement â€Å"emphasized the power of reason to improve human society by seeking the truth and dispelling superstition†(Cain, et al 236). Logic and reason is given prominence over faith. Alternatively, Bradstreet might have said God handed her the success. The difference in the thought process between the two writers is attributed to the importance of religion in their writing. In the 1600s, Puritanism is at the forefront of the colonies and contributed to Bradstreet’s poems; whereas, Franklin is moving the country from the application of religion to applying scientific reasoning in life. The allusion to readings beyond the Bible is a great indicator of the importance of education, to Bradstreet and Franklin. Books and education play an enormous part in Franklin’s life. In fact, the founding of the first circulating library solidifies the importance. The extent of his education is demonstrated with the allusion to other writers and philosophers such as Anthony Collins, Cotton Mathers, and John Bunyan ; in doing so, he is boasting his education and encouraging others to emulate him. Franklin’s’ â€Å"... first collection was of John Bunyan’s Works†¦Ã¢â‚¬  and reveals that he is reading beyond religious scripture(Franklin 312). As part of the Enlightenment movement, it was easier for Benjamin Franklin to read and mention otherShow MoreRelatedBenjamin Franklin As A Representation Of The Enlightenment1571 Words   |  7 PagesRepresentation of the Enlightenment The Enlightenment was largely a rational response to the 16th and 17th century Scientific Revolution, as well as major developments in philosophical thinking, such as ideas proposed by Rene Descartes. During the Enlightenment, thinkers emphasize rational and critical ways of thinking, rather than the complete reliance on religion that had been previously accepted. 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