a new Holy Land, which is his congregation in New England. His sole concentration was interpreting the Bible and living by its words. He recorded his goals to improve himself and set an example to his community.Benjamin Franklin seeks the same goals as an individual, but he desires to improve the "American man." In Soundings: Some Early American Writers, Lewis Leary writes "Franklin was the true American...[he] constantly redefines himself...none better represented the simple, noble men...who lived close to nature faithful to her laws uncontaminated by artificialities of court or town" (9, 11). Franklin lists virtues that he intended his audience to try to follow when they chose to improve themselves. By explaining that no one can change overnight and work on one vice until successively conquered, such as chastity, every man can find self-improvement and further contribute to their community (Lauter 810-11).With a diary and documenting each vice, Edward sought to overcome his sins, be closer to God, and teach from his experience the necessity to set the best example as one of the "elect." With Franklin's table of conquering vices, he wanted to be closer to being virtuous. These men documented their progress of their self-defined resolutions in hopes of their community to follow by their example. They desire to be influential by their own sacrifices and catch attention and esteem by their community.Edwards' and Franklin's writings reflect the political and social separations in their society. While Franklin teaches through writing the events to all Americans for the need for a closer society after the Revolutionary War, Edward preaches to his congregation the need to bind together and seek salvation during the time when America redefined religion. In, "Sinners of an Angry God," Edwards reacts with anger and fierceness to his congregation in the reaction to the "Great Awakening." In his sermon to his church, Edwards' theme is to plea the...
