Original essays collectively consider Franklin, his times, and his impact on American culture. One essay examines the culture of 18th century America and the very public figure of Franklin while another considers the difficulties critics have had in painting a complete portrait of Franklin, due in large part to his multifacetedness. The selection of reprinted essays examine the legacy of Franklin, and provide a careful close reading and a thorough analysis of biographical contexts in Franklin's "The Elysian Fields.