The readings presented regarding eighteenth century society suggest that during this time in the world much judgment, criticism and incongruence existed within society. Each of the readings reflects the personal experiences and hardships that non-majority members of society faced during the revolutionary and post revolutionary era. The writings suggest that during this time little tolerance of cultures, beliefs and values that existed outside of the white male majority existed. Despite this minority members of society including Native Americans, African Americans and women continually attempted to assert their presence and gain a voice within society. Through analysis of significant quotes and examination of personal relations and societal connections, this journal will reflect on the experiences of minority members of society during the eighteenth century and reflect on how the experiences of this subgroup helped shape interpersonal relationships and politics of the era. The journal will also reveal what literary devices are embraced within the text to emphasize the themes of cultural awareness, race and prejudice. .

             The readings represent a need to increase cultural awareness regarding the inequalities experienced by minority populations during the time the works were written. In fact this sentiment might be described as the primary theme evident throughout the readings. Ben Franklin offers great respect for American culture, and consistently worked to increase cultural awareness. This is evidenced through his reflections in the witch trial piece. Today citizens are generally more tolerant of other cultures and beliefs. The witch trial piece is a satire written by Franklin reflecting on the illegitimacy of Polly's children. In the witch trials and the tale of Polly Franklin speaks on the absurdity of man. Absurdity is in fact a common motif found in this reading, where Franklin attempts to portray how ironic it is that such a seemingly God fearing and reputable woman like Polly would be fined and 'brought to justice' by the courts for acting according to the law, 'immorally.