American Literature: Voices of an Emerging Nation

Which of the following best describes Benjamin Franklin?

• idle

• enterprising

• reserved

• hostile

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Why does Benjamin Franklin make a plan to master 13 basic virtues?

• He wants to achieve moral perfection.

• He wants to prove to his brother that he can run a business.

• He believes it will help him sell more copies of Poor Richard's Almanac.

• He seeks primarily to please God.

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In Common Sense, what is one way in which Thomas Paine strengthens his own claims?

• by describing his early life in England using flowery language

• by flattering the king of England with a list of compliments

• by presenting a long list of Asia's offenses against America

• by presenting counterarguments and showing why they are wrong

Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine write for different purposes, but both writers __________. 

• show that humans can improve themselves and society

• describe episodes in their early lives

• explain the importance of being financially frugal

• inspire people to stay committed to the cause of American freedom

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According to Thomas Jefferson, human rights are based on __________.

• human perfection

• personal preferences

• the laws of nature and God

• a national representative legislature

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What is one theme of Phillis Wheatley's "On Being Brought from Africa to America"?

• Slavery goes against God's laws.

• People of all colors can be redeemed by God.

• God is removed from the daily lives of humans.

• Slave traders will some day be enslaved by God.

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How does Olaudah Equiano convey the horror of his journey on the slave ship?

• He appeals to religious faith.

• He criticizes the British government.

• He argues for a moral law.

• He uses sensory details.

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How does Francis Scott Key convey the "glory" of the American flag?

• He builds tension, and then reveals that the flag is still standing.

• He uses dark, threatening imagery to describe the flag itself.

• He summarizes the history and significance of the flag.

• He compares the flag to a soldier's courage and patriotism.

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Why is it significant that "The Star-Spangled Banner" was written during a time of war?

• The author did not know if his poem would be published.

• The song united the nation and sparked a sense of patriotism.

• The images are very religious, which gave people hope for a better future.

• The anthem predicts defeat rather than victory.

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"'Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death." Based on these words, which virtue do both Paine and Benjamin Franklin celebrate?

• cleanliness

• humility

• frugality

• resolution