The literature describes different aspects of confidence, highlighting its positive and negative sides. In some cases, confidence is seen as a virtue that guides one forward and helps a person to overcome problems. In other instances, however, confidence may be blinding, as it takes away one’s ability to show empathy and listen to others.
One example of positive confidence is depicted in Benjamin Franklin’s essay “The Way to Wealth.” Another instance of a critic of confident behavior is seen in the character of Armand Aubigny in Kate Chopin’s short story “Désirée’s Baby.” Both works demonstrate how confidence is linked to perseverance and boldness, yet they reveal how the differing circumstances are connected to this characteristic.
In “Désirée’s Baby,” Armand is the husband of the protagonist of the story, a seemingly happy family man. However, once he realizes that his baby may have African ancestry, he blames his young wife, as her lineage is unknown. When discussing the child, Armand confidently asserts that the child is not white because Désirée is not (Chopin, 1893). He fails to listen to her arguments against this statement, which leads to his wife’s disappearance. Later, as Armand finds out that his mother is black, he burns the evidence and conceals this fact, which further highlights his hypocrisy and inability to unlearn the rigidity of this self-confidence.
A more positive depiction of confidence is seen in Franklin’s essay, where he speaks about ways to become prosperous. Franklin (1836) discusses several fundamental principles of hard work, providing lessons about rising early, avoiding idleness, and believing in one’s success. Here, the link between confidence and diligence is direct, and the author connects the favorable qualities of one’s personality to create a vision of a virtuous worker. The traits are related to trusting in the effectiveness of the current economic system, personal responsibility, and individualism, which are well-known aspects of American identity.
References
Chopin, K. (1893). Désirée’s baby.
Franklin, B. (1836). The way to wealth. In J. Sparks (Ed.), The works of Benjamin Franklin (pp. 92-103). Harvard University.