The Modern Scholar

The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin

By: Professor H.W. Brands

Narrated by: H.W. Brands

Early American history is dominated by engaging and iconic figures - none more intriguing than Benjamin Franklin. Chandler, balladeer, poet, printer, writer, humorist, satirist, swimmer, businessman, inventor, philosopher, soldier, administrator, scientist, politician, ladies' man, musician, humanitarian, philanthropist - it's almost easier to list the things Franklin was not than try to explain the pursuits and interests of this multi-faceted man.

In this course, you'll study with noted historian H.W. Brands, the New York Times best-selling author of The First American, which also earned a Pulitzer Prize nomination. Brands is a scholar who truly captures the essence of Franklin and the times in which he lived. This course examines the life of Franklin and his influence on both American and world history. From his early days as a printer's apprentice to very nearly his last days, Benjamin Franklin's thirst for knowledge and his desire to share what he knew brought him to the forefront of a changing world. His contributions through inventions, scientific investigation, and political thought still echo more than 200 years after his passing. He remains the model of the American thinker - a man who was interested in nearly everything, and who pursued those interests with an admirable and contagious passion. To study Franklin's life is to learn not only the history of a single man, but to understand some of the most monumental changes in all of human history.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©2003 H.W. Brands (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC

Wonderful, engaging set of lectures

I hadn't thought much about Benjamin Franklin since I was in high school, but I sought this out after hearing Prof. Brands lecture on a different topic. His lecturing style is so engaging I was immediately pulled in.

I thought the content was very thorough and it reminded me of the best of the Great Courses history offerings. If you like a traditional history lecture series, this can't be beat. Brands does an amazing job going over Franklin's fascinating life, but also puts it in context with the history of the time.

As Brands points out, this is the one Founding Father who we would have known about even if there were no American Revolution.

Ben Franklin a founder of America

A very enjoyable and enlightening lecture. It provided me with a personal insight into Doctor Franklin’s life that I didn’t get by watching a documentary.
Professor Brand’s delivery was very relaxed and comfortable.
I highly recommend it.

lecture not an audiobook

great story, great topic, wonderfully thorough. lecture is far more succinct than the book. one word remaining

A Good Beginning for Franklin

This book is a very good start on the life and time of Franklin; however, the listener should also read The First American by Prof. Brands.

Fabulous!!!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, The most interesting content was delivered via lecture which I enjoyed and which facilitated remembering the details. I learned so much about BF.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Modern Scholar?

Hearing that BF was one of the two "indispensable characters" of the American Revolution and founding of our country. Also that BF was, in the author's opinion, "the great genius of our country."

What about the narrator’s performance did you like?

Loved it. I look forward to buying Professor Brands books and listening to his other lectures. He is terrific!!!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I am blown away that one person could do so much. It is essential that our children learn about his life. BF embodies the American Dream, rising through his own efforts from poor beginnings to wealth and lasting greatness.