Prompt for Online 2326 Essay III (re: the Theocratic and Franklinian/Deistic Eras)
In a well-organized essay of a recommended 1500-2000 words (3-4 double spaced pages typed in 12 point Times New Roman font), explain (1) how a decline of Colonial America’s theocratic way might logically have been anticipated on the basis of specific events and/or details recorded in selections covered in the recorded lectures for this class and (2) how the subsequent emergence of the concept of deism can logically be seen as the primary influence in writings produced during the Franklinian era. The work about which you choose to write must constitute a representative sampling of works from each of the two eras. To achieve this representative sampling you must, at a minimum, address (a) either Bradford or Winthrop, (b) either Bradstreet or Taylor, and (c) either Byrd or Edwards when discussing the theocratic era. When addressing the Franklinian era, you must choose two authors from the Franklin, Crevecoeur, Jefferson group and no more than one author from the Wheatley/Equiano pairing. In all instances, you must make substantive use of the textual evidence from the authors you choose, and you should remember that the overall purpose of your essay is to demonstrate an understanding of how literature and thought in America develops from one era to the next.
Instructional content for this essay is, by my count, available in the last nine recordings (recordings 7-15) for this class. As always, given that this is a test of your knowledge and grasp of that which has been taught in this class this semester, students should refer to this content when writing their essays. Papers will be graded accordingly.
Finally, this essay is due by 11:59 a.m. (that is, one minute before noon) Wednesday, December 07, 2022. A “Turnitin” submission link will be created shortly. Feedback for your last essay will be provided at least two days before this essay is due.
