Final answer:
Benjamin Franklin portrays himself as a self-made individual, emblematic of the American Dream, through his 'rags to riches' tale and the promotion of his thirteen virtues, which emphasize hard work, intelligence, and moral integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this selection from his autobiography, Benjamin Franklin most likely seems eager to portray the characteristic of being a self-made individual. Franklin wrote about his "rags to riches" tale, setting a precedent for the American Dream of upward social mobility. His narrative reflects the Enlightenment ideals of the era, emphasizing hard work, intelligence, and ethical behavior as the means to success. Furthermore, his list of thirteen virtues underlines the importance of personal responsibility and community-focused virtues such as frugality, industry, and sincerity, which were meant to guide the citizens of the new republic.
As a key figure in American history, Franklin's legacy as an inventor, writer, diplomat, and statesman is built upon these values. He demonstrated through his life and writings that sustenance and respect could be earned through ingenuity and virtue—a philosophy that forms the cornerstone of what is often referred to as 'Republican virtue.'