Benjamin Franklin's Parental Struggles: A Comedy in Historical Context
- The play 'Franklinland' examines Benjamin Franklin's complex relationship with his son, William, set over three decades.
- It presents Benjamin as a narcissistic figure whose control leads to a strained father-son dynamic.
- The narrative reflects the broader theme of unmet parental expectations impacting familial bonds.
In the 1700s, a play titled 'Franklinland' currently runs at the Ensemble Studio Theater in Manhattan, exploring the tumultuous relationship between Benjamin Franklin and his son, William. The storyline spans from 1752 to 1785, highlighting the struggles of balancing familial expectations with public responsibilities. The father, portrayed as controlling and narcissistic, is depicted in a humorous yet critical light. The evolution of William, from an awkward young adult to a conflicted royal governor of colonial New Jersey, showcases the challenges of growing under a powerful parent's influence. This narrative resonates with the universal theme of parental expectations and the emotional toll it can exact on children, shedding light on the personal sacrifices often overshadowed by historical achievements.