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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. People often wish for something but never give thought to what?

2. Franklin tells the reader to be careful of how you treat items belonging to man. Which of the following is not on the list?

3. It is possible to give a man a place in office but it is not possible to give him what?

4. There is an ancient tale about an object that is able to turn lead into what?

5. According to Franklin, youth is both pert and ___________.

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What proverb relates to the thought of "absence makes the heart grow fonder"?

3. What is one of the qualities that helps a man be wise?

4. Who is Bridget Saunders? How is she described by Franklin?

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

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

7. How do possessions and the afterlife relate according to this section?

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

9. What are creditors known for the most?

10. What does Franklin have to say about a discontented man?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The first edition of Poor Richard's Almanack in the form of pamphlets appeared in 1732. Although many of the sayings still hold true today, much of the language no longer applies. This is due in part to the time in which the almanacks were written as well as a combination of the Queen's and King's language. Colloquialisms are another barrier the modern reader must overcome. Discuss the colloquialisms often used by Franklin, variations on spelling and how they may make meanings unclear or difficult for the modern American reader. How might some of the sayings be adapted for today? Would you use colloquialisms or avoid them?

Essay Topic 2

Education was a large part of Franklin's life, even though educational opportunities were somewhat limited while the author was growing up. Compare and contrast Franklin's level of education with what is common today. What educational facilities are most often associated with Franklin? Explain Franklin's dedication to education and learning throughout the course of his life.

Essay Topic 3

Franklin had a lot to say about using one's time well. This thought appears in several different areas, from being industrious to making time for leisure and through to being outright lazy. Following are three of Franklin's many citations on the topic. Explain each. Also describe what Franklin meant by laziness and leisure. Compare and contrast the two items.

"Up, sluggard, and waste not life; in the grave will be sleeping enough."

"O Lazy-Bones! Dost thou think God would have given thee Arms and Legs, if he had not design'd thou should'st use them."

"A life of leisure and a life of laziness, are two things."

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This section contains 670 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample