The Political Writings of John Locke Literary Elements

Political book

The book is set in the 1600s

First-person narrative

Enlightening, informative, directing, moving

The protagonist of the story is Robert Filmer.

The major conflict, according to Locke, is the government's decision to interfere with religious matters. The state has no moral authority to decide how to worship and what specific religion they should belong to.

The climax comes when Locke asserts that there is a natural-birth right to freedom of speech, worship, movement and property ownership for every child born in America.

The two treatises of government by John Locke foreshadowed the freedom of Americans to do what they conceive is right and safeguarded by the law.

Politics and religion are understated when it is assumed that each can work independently. Religion is about people and politics; it is also about governing people. Therefore, religion and politics cannot survive in isolation.

The story alludes to the historical journey to American's freedom of worship, speech, politics and protection by the government in place.

Locke uses imagery to express his theory of Christianity principles and his beliefs on politics. According to Locke, God's principles are vital in creating a healthy state. Locke says, "The nourishment and education of their children is a charge so incumbent on parents for their children's good, that nothing can absolve them from taking care of it: and though the power of commanding and chastising them go along with it, yet God hath woven into the principles of human nature such a tenderness for their offspring, that there is little fear that parents should use their power with too much rigour; the excess is seldom on the severe side."

The paradox of governance is evident throughout the book. It is satirical that, at times, the state wants to dictate religious matters and other freedoms affecting its citizens. Locke argues that people should be free to express their worship and do other things as long as they are within the law.

There is no specific example.

The ‘Second Treatise’ refers to Locke’s views on America’s democracy and guiding principles.

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