Quaren

Never been my style. My main question is what class would provide the best platform to morph into a self suffecient character than can tackle any challenge.

In that case, it definitely sounds like Templar would be the best choice. They're the tanks of ESO and are able to heal themselves. http://eldersouls.com/elder-scrolls-online/classes/

As far as being the tanks of ESO.. I think that is a bit over zealous. The Dragon Knight has the best mitigation we've seen so far regarding leaked abilities and such. It is still early yet. Honestly, I'm hoping that your role is determined by what gear and weapons you choose to use and the abilities you slot rather than the class you choose