Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography: A Journey of Self-Improvement and Civic Duty
Benjamin Franklin’s Virtues and Values
Industry and Self-Improvement
Franklin’s daily schedule, starting at 5:00 AM with eight hours of labor, demonstrates his strong work ethic. He believed that industry was key to self-improvement and success, as evidenced by his rise from a humble printing apprentice to a respected statesman who met with kings. His dedication extended to civic matters, such as founding Philadelphia’s first lending library, and wartime efforts, like supporting the French and Indian War.
Vanity and Humility
Franklin challenges the traditional view of vanity as a vice, arguing that it can be “productive of good.” He aims to gratify his vanity through his autobiography while maintaining humility, similar to historical figures like Jesus and Socrates. He acknowledges the potential for both vanity and humility in his “story,” suggesting that even overcoming vanity could be a source of pride.
Errors and Correction
Franklin views his mistakes as “errata” that can be corrected through future actions. He cites leaving his apprenticeship as a significant error, later rectified by adopting and educating his brother’s son. His commitment to civic duty is evident in his efforts to improve public policy and correct societal errors, such as advocating for smallpox inoculation after the tragic loss of his son.
Self-Education and Public Projects
Franklin’s autobiography aimed to inspire others through his example and methods. He believed in the power of self-improvement and education, evident in his 13 virtues and civic projects like the lending library, fire company, and the University of Pennsylvania. These initiatives reflect his vision of the “American Dream” – achieving personal fulfillment and success through hard work.
Community and Civic Duty
Franklin’s numerous civic achievements, including Philadelphia’s first hospital, paved roads, and public lighting, demonstrate his dedication to building a strong community. He believed in the importance of good citizenship and encouraged public activities that fostered self-improvement and a sense of duty towards others.
Analysis of Franklin’s Autobiography
Life as a Book
Franklin uses the metaphor of life as a book, suggesting that both can be revised and improved. He presents his life as a “fictional book,” not through lies but through interpretation and shaping of events. He finds meaning and order in seemingly random occurrences, transforming his experiences into a narrative.
Performance and Image
Franklin acknowledges the influence of British society in shaping his success and, consequently, his vanity. He justifies his accomplishments by attributing them to God’s help. He consciously crafts his image, similar to his earlier “Spectator” experiment, drawing inspiration from figures like Socrates.
Order and Fiction
Franklin’s autobiography reflects his belief in a world governed by order and purpose. He connects experiences to their usefulness, events to their moral lessons, and errors to their corrections. By fictionalizing his reality, he imposes structure and meaning onto his life.
Legacy and the American Dream
Franklin’s pursuit of happiness and self-improvement aligns with the revolutionary ideals of the time. His belief in an open and changeable future, as opposed to the fixed destiny of the Middle Ages, resonates with the American Dream and continues to inspire individuals today.