1. Theme of Self-Made Man and the Pursuit of Success:
* Franklin: He presents his autobiography as a guide for others, detailing his journey from humble beginnings to achieving success through hard work, pragmatism, and moral virtue. He emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and striving for excellence in all aspects of life.
* Equiano and Vassa: Both narratives depict their journeys from enslaved Africans to achieving freedom and success in their respective societies. They emphasize their resilience, intelligence, and drive to carve their own path in a world designed to suppress them. Although their success is not necessarily defined by wealth and social status like Franklin's, they find individual fulfillment in their pursuit of freedom and self-determination.
2. The Power of Narrative as a Tool for Social Change:
* Franklin: Franklin's autobiography aimed to inspire others to follow his example of self-improvement and contribute to the betterment of society. He strategically crafted his narrative to present himself as a model citizen and advocate for his vision of an ideal America.
* Equiano and Vassa: Both narratives serve as powerful tools for social change. Equiano's "Interesting Narrative" and Vassa's "The Life of Gustavus Vassa" expose the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and challenge the existing social order. They use their narratives to advocate for the abolition of slavery and plead for greater human rights for all people, regardless of race.
In summary: Both Franklin's autobiography and the narratives of Equiano and Vassa are compelling stories that focus on personal journeys of self-improvement and success, albeit with varying definitions of success. They utilize the power of narrative to advocate for social change, challenging existing social norms and advocating for greater equality and justice. While Franklin's narrative focuses on individual achievement within a system that favors him, Equiano and Vassa use their narratives to expose injustices and fight for fundamental human rights.