Rushlight

By Philip Founder

RUSHLIGHT is an historical play in verse centered on the life of Dr. Benjamin Rush, physician, patriot, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and author of the first published book on mental illness in the New World. The time is at the American Revolution.The theme of liberation is explored in three separate story lines.The first is the participation of Dr. Rush in the events of the American Revolution leading to a new, free country. These include membership in the Continental Congress, boycotts to protest the Intolerable Acts, Tom Paine's book Common Sense, the Battle of Bunker Hill, the Declaration of Independence, Washington's retreat from New York, the siege of Philadelphia, and participation by Rush as a physician in the Continental Army and caring for the sick and wounded after the Battle of Trenton. His marriage and relationship with his wife Julia Stockton is a part of this thread.The second is the liberation of a young woman patient under his care from her mental and emotional anguish resulting from family troubles. Dr. Rush wins her trust, gains her confidence, helps to unburden her of her suffering, and skillfully handles her growing love for him, guiding her towards a successful adulthood. His attachment to her is also a challenge.The third is the enlightenment of Dr. Rush through his participation in the secret and mysterious brotherhood of Freemasons, detailing his early experiences at the encouragement of Ben Franklin, his growth in knowledge and understanding of himself, including his own formative years, and of the stumbling blocks of his personality that mar the success of his medical practice and challenge his marriage, culminating in his initiation into the highest stages of the Masonic Rites.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 148120503X
• ISBN13: 9781481205030
• Release Date: February 2013
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 152 Pages
• Weight: 0.49 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.0" x 0.3" x 5.0"