A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court

As we complete our study of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain, the students are writing essays comparing how the main character Hank Morgan fared in the 6th century with how they think they themselves would fare. I was very pleased with the hard work that Ron Ryason put into his essay, especially since he is becoming so much more comfortable with the writing process than he was when he first came to Flint! Here is Ron's essay for your enjoyment!

Connecticut Yankee Essay

                 Toba Beta once said, “Time travel will never be impossible forever” My paper I’m writing is about a man from the 1800’s who went back to the 6^th century A.D. This is how he went back to the middle ages. He was bashed on the head with a hammer, by a man named Hercules. When the man woke up he saw he was in the Middle Ages.

                Hank brought many things back in time, because he was an inventor. He brought stuff back like guns, gun powder, knights on bicycles and lightning explosives. The reason why he brought all that stuff to the 6^th century is because he wanted to help the people.

                I know one of the characteristics about Hank. He was being bossy by telling people what to do. For example he was bossing the king, his knights, and the people.

                Hank believes that things should be decided based on what is right, not who just has power. He believes everyone should have enough money, not just the king and his nobles. I believe Hank says there should not be a lot of war. Hank wanted the people to decide things, not just the king.

                I would bring stuff back to the 6^th century, like reading and writing, because they didn't know how to do it back then. I would bring Jesus and life everlasting, because when people were talking about Jesus, they spoke Latin and people didn't understand that language. I’d bring back democracy so I could let people vote and share power. I would also bring God and the Ten Commandments to teach them about God’s law.

                I am a faithful person. I have faith because I believe in God and Jesus. Another reason I have faith is because I give offerings to help care for the poor. I ‘m very kind to other people. For example I volunteer to help people when needed. I also say kind things to help people feel good. I also have a good scene of humor. For example I make people laugh. When people tell jokes I laugh at them.

                I believe people should get along well. All people should have a good share of wealth. I believe I should tell people about Jesus. I would abolish slavery, because it is wrong.

                I would be better off in the 6^th century than Hank. One reason why I would be better in the 6^th century is because I have a lot of faith. Because of my faith God will protect and help me no matter what happens. Being helpful is another reason why I would be better in the 6^th century. The Yankee was helpful with his inventions for war, but I would be helpful for faith and kindness.

                In conclusion this essay was about time travel, if it is possible, what Hank did and what I would do. In my research I learned that time travel will never be possible with the technology that we have today. Hank brought some inventions like gunpowder, bicycles and explosives to help the king win wars. He wanted society to be different, for example he wanted people to be safe, he wanted people to be free and live a better life. What I would do in the 6^th century is teach people about Jesus. I would also teach them about democracy. I would also give people help when needed. I liked the book a lot because it was funny, exciting and interesting.