Lecture 3: The Emergence of a New Nation

Question 1

intro

Territorial Expansion and Colonies Reorganization:

Answer 1

This led to the scattering of Puritan ideals as colonies expanded geographically, evolving their cultural and ideological landscapes.

Question 2

intro

Enlightenment’s Impact:

Answer 2

Enlightenment introduced fresh concepts and values from Europe, revolutionizing human intellectual thought and perspectives on the world.

Question 3

intro

American War of Independence (1775-1783):

Answer 3

A pivotal conflict resulting in the separation of the American colonies from British rule.

Question 4

intro

Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776)

Answer 4

Signified the birth of a new nation, both politically and geographically, asserting independence from Britain.

Question 5

18th Century Highlights:

Enlightenment Philosophy:

Answer 5

Centered on the belief that the human mind could comprehend the natural universe’s order.

Question 6

18th Century Highlights:

Influence of Isaac Newton

Answer 6

Newton’s theories illustrated an ordered, predictable universe, encouraging faith in science and human progress

Question 7

18th Century Highlights:

American Enlightenment:

Answer 7

Emphasized human equality, natural rights, empirical knowledge, and faith in individual potential.

Question 8

18th Century Highlights:

Benjamin Franklin’s Symbolism:

Answer 8

Represented the American Enlightenment, prioritizing material success and advocating values of hard work.

Question 9

Benjamin Franklin and “The Way to Wealth”:

Poor Richard’s Almanac (1732-58):

Answer 9

Offered practical self-improvement advice through engaging maxims, employing rhythm, rhymes, and other literary devices.

Question 10

Benjamin Franklin and “The Way to Wealth”:

Franklin’s Literary Persona:

Answer 10

Created a character through which to convey practical wisdom and insights.

Question 11

Benjamin Franklin and “The Way to Wealth”:

Political Undertones in “The Way to Wealth”

Answer 11

Franklin’s work carried subtle messages endorsing Revolutionary ideals and Independence.

Question 12

Thomas Jefferson and Popular Sovereignty

Answer 12

Shift in Governance: The Declaration of Independence moved away from the belief in the divine right of kings towards the notion of governance derived from the people’s consent.

Emphasis on Equality: Advocated for an America offering equal opportunities to all its inhabitants.

Question 13

Hector St. John de Crèvecoeur and Secular Sentimentalism:

Answer 13

Reflections on America: De Crèvecoeur examined America’s diversity, liberties, and regional disparities.

Acknowledgment of Slavery: Addressed the presence of institutionalized slavery, using emotive language to evoke empathy.

Question 14

Washington Irving and the Short Story:

Answer 14

“Rip Van Winkle” (1819): Explored societal changes post-American War of Independence.

Literary Structure: Employed key elements of a short story - exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action or denouement.

Question 15

literacy concepts

Answer 15

Metre: Explores poetic meter, including dactyl, molossus, and metric foot.

Binary Structure: Discusses the use of binary structures in poetic composition.

Literary Devices: Focuses on assonance, alliteration, and their roles in enhancing literary texts.

Creation of Literary Persona: Examines the creation of a fictional character to convey ideas or messages.

Short Story Elements: Details the elements commonly found in a short story: exposition, rising action, climax, and falling action or denouement.