According to the author, why do Franklin's theories go out of vogue? What is the difference between realism and romanticism? Which do you espouse?

Deborah is the first girl Franklin sees when he gets off the boat in Philadelphia. Why do you think he forsakes her in London? Is their situation similar to a situation you have encountered before? Why or why not? How does Franklin's eventual "marriage" to Deborah play into his plan for a personal moral code?

Franklin sustains many long lasting flirtations in his life. Do you think any of these flirtatious relationships are ever consummated? Why or why not? Would Franklin's moral code have permitted him to make good on his flirtations? How does Deborah factor into the arrangement?

Discuss the irony of the death of Franky, Franklin's first son. Be sure to also discuss the tradition of illegitimate children...