RATIONALISM and the Revolutionary Period In American Literature

RATIONALISM and the Revolutionary Period In American Literature The Age of Reason a. k. a. , “The Enlightenment” (1700 s)

CHARACTERISTICS Truth comes from reasoning, not faith Acknowledge gift of reason from God Deism – get to know God through reason; God created universe but doesn’t interfere in its workings.

CHARACTERISTICS continued Science and invention dominate the culture of America Government and organization are the primary concerns of the literary period

Rationalists’ primary concern is with reason and the acquisition of knowledge. Thomas Jefferson wrote: “Your own reason is the only oracle given you by heaven. . . ”

Rationalism developed not only American thought and politics, it also helped develop American education. From the Rationalists’ point of view, the child is an empty vessel with no predetermined traits of “human nature. ” Into this empty vessel, learning, especially scientific, mathematical and technological knowledge should be poured.

“I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death. " - Patrick Henry

"I cannot conclude without mentioning how sensibly I feel the dismemberment of America from this empire, and that I should be miserable indeed if I did not feel that no blame on that account can be laid at my door, and I did not also know that knavery seems to be so much the striking feature of its inhabitants that it may not in the end be an evil that they will become aliens to this kingdom. " King George III, Letter to Shelburne, 1782 -

What we will study in this movement: Patrick Henry’s “Speech in the Va. Convention” The Declaration of Independence as a persuasive essay Poor Richard’s Almanac (sp. ) “What is an American? ” Vindication of the Rights of Women Malcolm X’s “Necessary to Protect Ourselves”