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NOVELS: The Autobiography |
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| The Autobiography of Benjamin
Franklin was originally written for his son,
William, who was the Governor of New Jersey. The
first five chapters were written in 1771, in
England. Franklin did not finish the book until
1788, where he stopped the story in 1751 when he
was 51. The book covers many of his adventures,
and gives us a look at life in colonial
Philadelphia. It also gives us his philosophies
on religion, character, social classes, and
literature. Not only is this book a story of Benjamin Franklin’s life, it also serves to provide advise on how one should structure their character and morals. Franklin indicates some of his faults in the book, such as excessive pride, and goes about discussing how he tried to solve them. He writes in the book that, for those who read it, some of his situations may be similar to his own, and that his methods may be helpful in solving their problems as well. It is an autobiography and a self help book of sorts all in one. The Autobiography is not written as a novel, but it has many similarities to one. The book has structure, style, and most importantly, it contains a theme. The book goes about telling the life story of Benjamin Franklin while simultaneously discussing philosophies and how to maintain your character. This is part of the reason that The Autobiography is considered such a great work from American Colonial Times. The Autobiography has a theme of the ideal way for an individual to behave. Franklin shows this in writing about how he tried to live his own life and fix his own faults. He is a symbol of the everyday American, constantly struggling with faults. He states that we should accept our imperfections, yet have goals and try to improve ourselves where we can. Franklin’s writing is in itself a paradox. He writes about how he tries to be humble, but also writes that he has excessive pride. This is important that he admits his faults. It serves as an example to his readers so that they may be able to better their own character. This is how he goes about settign a purpose to this book and gives it its theme. |