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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following is not one of the things that will increase a man's desires?

2. What is the end to this famous saying: To err is human, to forgive is divine, to persist is __________.

3. What is a faggot?

4. Which relative should you visit often but not at night?

5. What is one thing that a mother would never exchange?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the author's opinion on finding honor in one's family?

2. What is the prevailing thought about a person's background and shame?

3. What is the most common way in which a man will deal with his faults?

4. How does Franklin describe becoming a complete and worthy man? What attributes to that goal?

5. What is the consequence of not punishing those who have committed a wrong?

6. What are some of the thirteen virtues listed by Franklin at the end of the book?

7. What is the story used about education versus common sense in regards to Tim?

8. Why does Franklin believe that "early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise?"

9. What is the author's view of political office as it relates to morals?

10. What are creditors known for the most?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Franklin was quite vocal about being honest, he also made it clear that one should not give away too much information about one's life, career, and debt. One should also avoid prying into the lives of friends and neighbors in the same area. Cite at least five proverbs in which Franklin makes this point. If one does share sensitive information, what can ensure that it will be kept? What kind of information do you think should be kept private? Who do you share secrets with most often?

Essay Topic 2

Along with his thoughts on creating good and honest relationships, Franklin also discusses friendship. In Franklin's opinion, friendships should be made carefully, nurtured and cherished. Some examples are as follows: "A father's a treasure; a brother's a comfort; a friend is both;" "Be slow in choosing a friend, slower in changing;" and "Thou canst not joke an enemy into a friend; but thou may'st a friend into an enemy."

Explain what Franklin means in each of these proverbs. How do they apply to your friendships? On what do you base a friendship? Do you make friends easily or is it difficult? Are you a good friend or a fair weather friend?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the creation and development of Richard Saunders as a character. Was Saunders simply a pen name or did he have his own personality and beliefs? Include information about Bridget Saunders and how she relates to the text. When do you think the public found out that Saunders was really Franklin? What kind of response might Franklin have received when the news came out? How do you think it affected the almanack?

(see the answer keys)

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