Unit 2 Discussion: The Great Awakening se • , Discussion scussion Topic
Unit 2 Discussion: The Great Awakening
The Great Awakening was a spiritual revival movement that occurred in the Atlantic world during the mid-18th century. In fact, the evangelical movement of today owes much to the developments that took place over two centuries ago. The Awakening polarized America between those who supported it (New Lights) and those who were against it (Old Lights). In this discussion, you will explore both sides of the Great Awakening and its impact on American society.
Required Readings
Read the following sources for this discussion:
1. Chapter 4 in OpenStax U.S. History, pages 110-114 2. The First Great Awakening 3. Jonathan Edwards on the Great Awakening 4. Charles Chauncy against Revivalism
Instructions For this assignment, the class will discuss the perspectives for and against the Great Awakening. You will write a minimum of two paragraphs discussing the positions assigned to your last name (see below). A good paragraph should include about 6 sentences minimum – a 1-2 sentence paragraph is never enough. Be comprehensive in your coverage of the assigned readings.
Feel free to write in character as a person from the 18th century (ex: if you are in favor of the Great Awakening, pretend to be a New Light minister or someone who has been converted by the Awakening; if you are against the Great Awakening, be an Old Light minister or someone else speaking out against the Awakening). Use examples from the various readings to support your analysis. Answer the following questions for your assigned perspective:
1A. For the Great Awakening (answer these questions if your last name starts with A-L) From your character’s perspective, why is the Great Awakening a positive event? Who are the types of people involved in the Awakening? Which ministers associated with the Great Awakening and what message have they preached? Your answer should reflect the main points of Chapter 4, the article The First Great Awakening, AND the reading by Jonathan Edwards.