The American Dream lecture in Week 1 points out that Poor Richardâs Almanac was an annual publication that included calendar lists, home recipes, weather forecasts etc. What made Franklinâs almanac unlike other almanacs was the inclusion of Franklinâs witty parables and humorous writings. Franklin proposes in âThe Way to Wealthâ that anyone who works hard, avoids debt, and works toward attaining a virtuous character can be successful and ultimately wealthyâthat the American Dream is accessible to all.
Watch either The Color Purple or The Great Gatsby (locate the films using Netflix, Amazon, or your local library) and argue why or why not Franklinâs assertions are correct. Provide examples from the film and your own explanations to support your assertions.
Sample Solution