The Modern Scholar

The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin

By: Professor H.W. Brands

Narrated by: H.W. Brands

Length: 7 hrs and 59 mins

Publisher's summary

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

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.

Outstanding lecture

I knew little about Ben Franklin other than the popular caricatures. This lecture series taught me a great deal. Lectures were substantive and articulate. First rate.

Love it

If I'm being honest, I've listened to this lecture series about half a dozen time. It's an easy go to book when I'm in need of something entertaining without app of the plot twist of a novel. I simply have a bad memory. The professor does a great job at keeping the listeners attention and Benjamin Franklin is a fun historical figure to learn about. Love and recommend it to anyone looking to learn as they listen.

Great Course on Ben Franklin

The narrator in this course series was very engaging and did an excellent job in delivering information on Ben Franklin. He adds an enjoyable amount of personal facts.

Great book

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

Yes, it is the best history book I have ever read. It is well researched and full of information.

Just another Joe at this time.

Personal view into this early American character and his views evolving toward the creation of a great nation today. What would he feel about the existence and common use of wifi in life today.

Great Man, but a biography is just better than a course

This was the first time I tried listening to a course, instead of reading a biography. I didn't like it nearly as much, as the conversational tone leads to much repetition and oversimplification.