Free Time Periods By Nathanial Hawthorne And Benjamin...

Despite writing in different time periods, Nathanial Hawthorne and Benjamin Franklin both demonstrate strong opinions about democratic equality in America. Through his short stories, Hawthorne writes cautionary tales demonstrating the fear and confusion that Puritan characters have when they discover the sinfulness of others. Franklin writes about the inequality in America but gives the reader a method for overcoming this inequality and making the most out of oneself. While Franklin and Hawthorne both argue for democratic equality, there are important differences in their writings in the way to achieve equality. Throughout this paper, I will compare and contrast these two authors and then make the argument that Hawthorne’s writings are more persuasive since they demonstrate the constant struggle between morality and individualism, a challenge that still exists in the 21st century. In Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography, he writes about his remarkable life and career, but also maps out how common folk can create their own success in America. Franklin lays out certain virtues that he believes people should cultivate if they want to improve themselves and create success from nothing, as he did. For example, â€Å"I included under thirteen names of virtues all that at that time occurr d to me as necessary or desirable.† He argues that it is not exceptional ability that cultivates success but a devotion to serving others and the discipline needed to pursue the virtues that