An Outline of American Literature Book1好的.doc

An Outline of American Literature (Book I) I. Colonial period (1600-1750) The Oral literature of the Indians: rituals, songs, myth. The first writing that we call American: narratives and journals of the settlements. The first American writer: John Smith, who published eight works in all; Puritan values (P.5); Puritan thoughts (PP.8-9). II. The literature of reason and revolution (1750-1800) 1.American Enlightenment（P.16: Philosophical and intellectual movement; Advocated reason or rationality, the scientific method, equality and human beings’ ability to perfect themselves and their society; Agreed on faith in human rationality and existence of discoverable and universally valid principles governing human beings, nature and society; Opposed intolerance, restraint, spiritual authority and revealed religion 2. Characteristics of literature (P.17): Patterned after the writings of 18th century Englishmen; Increase of feminine reading audience popularity of novel; Popularity of political pamphleteering and state papers ( shaped the nation’s beliefs with reason dressed in clear forceful prose) 3. Benjamin Franklin: titles (PP.16-17): Humanist, Scientist, Humanitarian, Believer in human progress comforts of material success, Prose stylist, Diplomat of revolution Benjamin Franklin’s contributions: (PP.18-19); Analysis of Selected Parts of The Autobiography 1) a. He was interested in reading as a child. b. Being an apprentice to his brother, he began writing. c. How he improved his argumentation. Summary: Franklin was thirsty for knowledge and improved his writing with practical methods. How he gained success through consistent effort and hard work. (self-improvement /education) 2)a. The way of learning language. b. Practice makes perfect---a piece of advice on how to teach language. c/d. Relations with his relatives. Life experience. e. Learning Club Junto: devoted to the improvement of young man, influence public opinion. 3) Why is Franklin admired widely? a.