The aphorisms that Franklin shares in Poor Richard’s Almanack and Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe both embrace aspects of Pope’s “know thyself.” Franklin’s maxims provide general truths that the reader must relate to examples in his/her own life to understand. In the process, readers learn what they do well and what they can improve, as Franklin mediates morality through his writings. Though he idealizes human behavior, Franklin’s messages are not unrealistic, as he allots provisions for reasonable lapses. For example, in Advice to a Young Tradesman, he suggests that if unable to completely pay debts, one should “divide it among ‘em in proportion.” Amazingly, most, if not all, of Franklin’s points apply to modern society. We can also trace modern problems, such as the credit crisis, to departures from Frankln’s principles.
Defoe’s novel also deals in self-discovery and self-improvement. Throughout the text, Crusoe must become efficient at self-reliance in order to survive. Franklin’s maxims, “he that lives carnally, won’t live eternally” and “if you have time, don’t wait for time” could apply to Crusoe’s necessity to plant crops such as barley at the right time in order to survive.
On the island, Crusoe only appeals to God when he can’t believe in himself: when his ship is about to founder, when he initially lands on the island, and when his fever prevents him from sustaining himself with food and water. He later overcomes each of these obstacles with improved planning and knowledge of himself. Just as a balance exists between vice and good & passion and reason in knowing thyself, Robinson Crusoe suggests that a knowledge of one’s ability and limitations also forms an important aspect of knowing thyself.
I like how you brought Pope's idea into this discussion. However, with regards to your idea regarding religion I also noticed that religion played an interesting role in Crusoe's journey. It seemed almost as if religion was just a crutch for Crusoe to lean on when he was in doubt of himself or his decision to leave. Maybe this was an implication that individuals should trust more in themselves to solve situations and prosper, as opposed to just relying on religion when they face hardship?
ReplyDeleteI agree with Brett's analysis of religion almost serving as a crutch for Crusoe when he found himself struggling on the Island. It is natural for individuals with a belief in a higher power to search out guidance and assistance, and this is precisely what Crusoe does. But how would Franklin view such self doubt? Since God never perceptibly intervenes and it is Crusoe's contemplation of him that leads to his own action, I think Franklin would appreciate the benefits that a religious mindset affords.
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