Benjamin Franklin's "Autobiography"

Paper Summary:

Benjamin Franklin was one individual who successfully achieved many of his goals. Not only was he able to enjoy his success while he was alive, but also had the pleasure of knowing that his success story would continue to be an inspiration to many for years to come. Through a closer reading of Franklin's "The Autobiography and Other Writings," this paper shows that there were many factors that contributed to his success, such as his initial upbringing by moral parents, his exposure to education, and the fact that, within the society from which he came, it was normal for young men to be apprenticed in a specific trade. However, the key elements contributing to Franklin's success were his conscious effort to improve himself and his resolution to consistently live a life of virtue.

From the Paper:

"As a child, Franklin had the good fortune not only to be exposed to moral teaching, but also to have the example of his father, who he portrays throughout his autobiography as an honourable, diligent, and reputable man, whose "great excellence lay in a sound understanding and solid judgement in prudential matters, both in private and public affairs." Franklin's childhood memories entail instances of his father's dinner conversations with various guests, which regularly turned the family's attention to "what was good, just, and prudent in the conduct of life." Instances such as these conversations, as well as the general advice and discipline given by his father, made a lasting impression on Franklin, providing a base upon which to later form his thirteen virtues."

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