1. The Enlightenment and the Age of Reason 1750-1800

2. What is Enlightenment or The Age of Reason?
a period in the 18th century noted for belief in the ability of reason to discover truth, shape society, and shed “light” onto the darkness of ignorance, superstition, injustice, and tyranny

3. What are some beliefs concerning Enlightenment or The Age of Reason?
People could discover the truth about the meaning of life by “REASON” alone.
The natural world, human nature, and social institutions are governed by universal laws
All men are created equal and are endowed with certain natural rights
Governments exist only by the consent of the governed, who are justified in rebelling if their natural rights are violated
JUST SAY NO TO MONARCHY!

4. more beliefs . . .
Enlightenment thinkers de-emphasized “grace” and “pre-destination” in favor of “moral
choice” and scientific inquiry.
Man can deduce the existence
of a supreme being from the fact
that the universe exists rather than
because of what the Bible says. (Deism)
Deists also thought that a harmonious universe proves the beneficence of God.
This was in direct contrast to Puritanism

5. America and The Age of Reason
Many Americans expressed their thoughts and feelings in newspapers of the time (use of pamphlets)
They wrote poems, songs, essays on the issues of the day –mainly about the problems with the British government
These essays, poems, etc. were printed up in “broadsides” –sheets of paper covered with these anonymous writings, which were then tacked up around the city.
This was one way that the idea of the Revolution was spread in America during the 1770’s.

6. Rhetorical Strategies
Logical appeals (LOGOS) are meant to appeal to the audience’s mind; consist of reasons and evidence.
Emotional appeals (PATHOS) are meant to appeal to the audience’s feelings; often presented with strong, connotative language.
Ethical appeals (ETHOS) establish the character and credibility of the spaker/author.

7. Texts to study:
Benjamin Franklin: Autobiography, Poor Richard’s Almanac
Pages 167 & 171
Patrick Henry: “Speech to the Virginia Convention”
Page 122
Thomas Paine: The Crisis, No.1;
Page 132