The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin · Character

Josiah Franklin

Franklin's father, a tallow chandler and candle maker in Boston.

minor

Also known as Josiah

First appearance: I: Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston

Josiah Franklin shows up with force in The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin. The page is where that presence becomes real.

Benjamin's father, who advised him on practical wisdom and moral conduct.

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In The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin: Benjamin's father, who advised him on practical wisdom and moral conduct. Later, in I: Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston: Benjamin's father, a tallow-chandler and…

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See Josiah Franklin in I: Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston

Character Web

6 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Extended Network and Collaborators
Protagonist
Early Influences and Mentors

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because Franklin transitions from merely recording his personal success…

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Josiah Franklin appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin's father, who advised him on practical wisdom and moral conduct.
I: Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston
Benjamin's father, a tallow-chandler and soap-boiler, known for his sound judgment and mechanical genius.
II: Beginning Life as a Printer
Benjamin's father; discourages Benjamin's poetry, determines to make him a printer, and later sides with James in the dispute.
IV: First Visit to Boston
Franklin's father, who refuses Governor Keith's proposal, judging Franklin too young to manage a business.
Business Success and First Public Service
His proverb about diligence is recalled by Franklin as encouragement.
Plan for Attaining Moral Perfection
Mentioned indirectly as Franklin reflects on his upbringing and the influence of his father's teachings.
Interest in Public Affairs
Franklin's father; referenced indirectly in the context of Franklin's upbringing and moral lessons.

Chapter companion notes

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See Josiah Franklin in I: Ancestry and Early Youth in Boston

See Josiah Franklin in The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin