Puritan Literature: Authors, Characteristics and Influence

Puritan literature emerged in the 16th and 17th centuries, reflecting the beliefs and values of the Puritan religious movement. These writings were created by people who wanted to “purify” the Church of England and live according to strict religious principles. Puritan authors wrote about their faith, daily life, and moral lessons. Their works had a big impact on early American literature and culture, shaping ideas about hard work, education, and personal responsibility that are still important today. In this discussion, we’ll look at some key Puritan writers, the main features of their writing, and how their ideas influenced later generations.

Historical Context and Emergence

The Puritan movement began in England during the 16th century as part of a broader Protestant Reformation. Discontent with the perceived corruption and opulence of the Church of England, Puritans sought to reform religious practices to align more closely with their interpretation of the Bible. When their efforts faced resistance, many Puritans migrated to the New World, establishing colonies that would allow them to practice their faith freely. The most notable of these was the Massachusetts Bay Colony, founded in 1630 under the leadership of John Winthrop .

The migration of the Puritans to America provided a fertile ground for their literature to flourish. It was in this new and challenging environment that they sought to create a “city upon a hill,” a community that would serve as a beacon of religious virtue and purity. The concept of creating a “city upon a hill” was famously articulated by John Winthrop in his 1630 sermon “A Model of Christian Charity.” This metaphor, drawn from the Bible (Matthew 5:14), encapsulated the Puritans’ vision of their new settlement as an exemplary community that would serve as a beacon of religious virtue and purity. They believed their success would inspire others and spread their version of reformed Christianity.

This ideological framework profoundly influenced Puritan literature. Their writings were not merely artistic expressions but served specific theological and social purposes:

1. Religious instruction: Many Puritan texts were sermons, religious treatises, and spiritual guidebooks aimed at educating their community in proper Christian doctrine and behavior.
2. Personal reflection: Journals and autobiographies were common, as Puritans engaged in rigorous self-examination to monitor their spiritual progress.
3. Historical documentation: Chronicles and histories were written to record God’s providence in their community’s development.
4. Poetry: While less common, poetry was used to explore religious themes and personal faith.

The challenging environment of the New World added another dimension to their writing. The harsh realities of colonial life, encounters with Native Americans, and the struggle to build a society from scratch all found their way into Puritan literature, often interpreted through a religious lens.

Characteristics of Puritan Literature

Puritan literature is characterized by several key elements that reflect the religious and moral values of the Puritan movement. These characteristics include:

1. First-Person Narrative: Puritan authors often wrote in the first person, using journals, diaries, and day-to-day experiences to convey their thoughts and stories.
2. Religious Theme: Puritan literature focused on religious themes, emphasizing the importance of God and the Bible in daily life. It did not aim to entertain but rather to instruct and convey moral messages.
3. Simple Style: Puritan writing was known for its simplicity, using direct and straightforward language to convey ideas. This style was influenced by the Puritans’ simple and humble lifestyle.
4. Biblical Allusions: Puritan authors frequently used biblical references and allusions to illustrate points and convey moral lessons. This helped readers connect their own lives to biblical narratives and events.
5. Fear as a Tool: Puritan literature often employed fear as a means to effect change in readers. By emphasizing the consequences of sin and the threat of hell, authors aimed to inspire moral reform.
6. Specific Genres: Puritan literature typically took the form of sermons, poems, letters, and historical narratives. These genres were chosen to convey religious messages and values.
7. Avoidance of Elaborate Style: Puritan authors shunned elaborate writing styles, preferring direct and simple language to convey their points. This reflected their emphasis on humility and simplicity.
8. Influence of the Bible: Puritan literature was heavily influenced by the Bible, with authors drawing parallels between their own lives and biblical narratives. This helped to reinforce the importance of faith and morality.
9. Purpose-Driven Writing: Puritan authors wrote with specific purposes in mind, often aiming to instruct or teach Christian values. Their writing was not meant for entertainment but for spiritual growth and moral improvement.

Puritanism

Puritanism was a significant religious and social movement that emerged within Protestant Christianity, primarily in England during the 16th and 17th centuries. Here are key aspects of Puritanism:

1. Origins: Developed as a reform movement within the Church of England, seeking to “purify” it of perceived Catholic influences.
2. Theology: Emphasized Calvinist doctrines, including predestination and the sovereignty of God.
3. Bible-centered: Placed great importance on Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice.
4. Moral strictness: Advocated for a rigorous moral code and disciplined lifestyle.
5. Simplicity in worship: Favored plain, unadorned church services and rejected elaborate ceremonies.
6. Education: Strongly emphasized literacy to enable personal Bible study.
7. Work ethic: Promoted diligence and hard work as virtuous pursuits.
8. Social impact: Influenced politics, particularly in England and colonial America.
9. New England colonies: Played a crucial role in the founding and early development of several American colonies.
10. Legacy: Significantly shaped aspects of American culture, including attitudes toward work, education, and morality.

How did the Puritans view literature?

The Puritans had a complex and often restrictive view of literature:

1. Religious focus: They primarily valued literature with explicit religious and moral themes, especially works that interpreted or expounded upon Biblical teachings.
2. Suspicion of fiction: Many Puritans were skeptical of fictional works, viewing them as potential distractions from religious devotion or even as forms of lying.
3. Emphasis on plainness: Puritans generally preferred simple, direct writing styles over ornate or elaborate prose.
4. Didactic purpose: They believed literature should serve an educational or moral purpose, not merely entertain.
5. Autobiography and personal narratives: Puritans encouraged writing about personal religious experiences and spiritual journeys.
6. Poetry: While some Puritans were wary of poetry, others embraced it as a means of religious expression, as seen in the works of Anne Bradstreet.
7. Limited drama: Theatre was largely discouraged or banned in Puritan communities.
8. Practical works: They valued instructional literature on topics like household management, childrearing, and agriculture.

Major Puritan Authors and Works

William Bradford

William Bradford (1590-1657) was a prominent Puritan writer and the second governor of the Plymouth Colony in present-day Massachusetts. He is best known for his historical account titled “Of Plymouth Plantation,” which chronicles the experiences of the Pilgrims from 1620 to 1647. This work is considered one of the most significant early American texts, offering a detailed narrative of the Pilgrims’ journey on the Mayflower, their settlement in the New World, and the challenges they faced.

Here is an overview of Bradford’s major contributions:

1. “Of Plymouth Plantation”
   • Content: This manuscript provides a detailed history of the Plymouth Colony, including the Pilgrims’ religious motivations, their departure from England, the difficult voyage on the Mayflower, and the subsequent hardships and triumphs in establishing their new settlement. Bradford’s account is particularly valued for its firsthand perspective and meticulous recording of events.
   • Significance: “Of Plymouth Plantation” is a key primary source for understanding the early years of American colonization and the Puritan experience. It also reflects the Pilgrims’ religious convictions and their belief in divine providence.
2. Other Writings:
   • While “Of Plymouth Plantation” is his most famous work, Bradford also wrote poems, letters, and dialogues. These writings, though less well-known, further illuminate his religious views and the social dynamics of the Plymouth Colony.
   • Poetry and Letters: Bradford’s poems and letters often reflect his deep Puritan faith, personal reflections, and the struggles of the colonial experience. These documents provide additional context to the period and insights into Bradford’s personal life and relationships.

Bradford’s writings are characterized by a plain style, reflecting the Puritan emphasis on simplicity and clarity. His works are invaluable for understanding the mindset, challenges, and aspirations of the early Puritan settlers in America.

Anne Bradstreet

Anne Bradstreet (1612-1672) was a prominent Puritan poet and is often regarded as the first published female poet in America. Her work provides a unique window into the life and thoughts of a woman in early colonial New England.

Here is an overview of Bradstreet’s major contributions:

1. “The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America” (1650)
   • Content: This collection of poems was the first published volume of poetry by an author living in the American colonies. The poems cover a range of topics, from personal reflections and meditations on her experiences as a mother and wife to more public themes like the contemplation of the divine and the natural world.
   • Significance: “The Tenth Muse” established Bradstreet as a significant literary figure. It was published in England without her knowledge by her brother-in-law, who recognized her talent and sought to share her work with a broader audience.
2. “Several Poems Compiled with Great Variety of Wit and Learning” (1678)
   • Content: This posthumous collection includes many of Bradstreet’s best-known poems, such as “To My Dear and Loving Husband” and “Verses Upon the Burning of Our House.” These poems explore themes of love, faith, and loss, often drawing on her personal experiences and deep religious beliefs.
   • Significance: This collection solidified Bradstreet’s reputation as a poet who could adeptly weave together personal emotion and Puritan theology.
3. Other Notable Works:
   • “The Prologue”: This poem is notable for its introspective and somewhat self-deprecating tone, reflecting on the challenges faced by women writers in a male-dominated society.
   • “Contemplations”: A series of meditative verses that reflect on nature and the divine, showcasing Bradstreet’s philosophical and theological depth.
   • “In Honour of that High and Mighty Princess Queen Elizabeth of Happy Memory”: A poem that pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth I, illustrating Bradstreet’s engagement with historical and political themes.

Anne Bradstreet’s poetry is characterized by its blend of personal insight and Puritanical introspection. Her work not only offers a glimpse into the domestic and spiritual life of a 17th-century Puritan woman but also showcases her literary skill and pioneering spirit as one of America’s earliest poets.

John Winthrop

John Winthrop (1588-1649) was a key figure in early American history and a prominent Puritan leader. He is best known for his role as the first governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and for his influential writings, which provide deep insight into Puritan beliefs and the early colonial experience.

Here is an overview of Winthrop’s major contributions:

1. “A Model of Christian Charity” (1630)
   • Content: Delivered as a sermon aboard the Arbella en route to the New World, this piece outlines Winthrop’s vision for the new colony. He emphasized the importance of community, mutual support, and adherence to Christian principles. The famous phrase “a city upon a hill” originates from this sermon, symbolizing the Puritan goal of creating a godly society that would serve as an example to the world.
   • Significance: This sermon is often cited as foundational for American exceptionalism and reflects the idealism and communal ethos of the early Puritan settlers. It encapsulates the aspirations and religious motivations behind the establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
2. The Journal of John Winthrop (“The History of New England”)
   • Content: Winthrop’s journal, kept from 1630 until his death in 1649, is a detailed account of the day-to-day life and events in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. It includes descriptions of the colony’s challenges, governance, interactions with Native Americans, and religious and social developments.
   • Significance: This journal is a crucial primary source for understanding the early years of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. It provides a comprehensive record of the colony’s growth, struggles, and the implementation of Puritan religious and social ideals.
3. Other Writings:
   • Winthrop also wrote numerous letters, legal documents, and religious tracts that further reveal his thoughts and leadership style. These writings address a wide range of topics, including governance, law, theology, and community relations.
4. Key Themes in Winthrop’s Writings:
   • Religious Faith: Winthrop’s writings are deeply infused with his Puritan faith. He saw the colony as a divine mission and believed that strict adherence to religious principles was essential for the community’s success.
   • Community and Unity: Emphasizing the importance of social cohesion and mutual responsibility, Winthrop’s vision for the colony was one where individual interests were subordinated to the common good.
   • Moral Leadership: Winthrop advocated for leaders who were not only capable but also morally upright, reflecting his belief that the colony should be a model of Christian virtue.

Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) was a prominent Puritan theologian, preacher, and philosopher, widely regarded as one of the most important and original figures in American religious history. His works played a key role in shaping the First Great Awakening, a series of religious revivals that swept through the American colonies in the 18th century.

Here is an overview of Edwards’ major contributions:

1. “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” (1741)
   • Content: This is Edwards’ most famous sermon, delivered during the height of the Great Awakening. It vividly describes the horrors of Hell and the potential fate awaiting unrepentant sinners, emphasizing the absolute sovereignty of God and the urgent need for personal repentance and conversion.
   • Significance: This sermon is a quintessential example of fire-and-brimstone preaching and has had a lasting impact on American religious thought. It is often studied for its rhetorical power and theological depth, as well as its role in sparking widespread religious fervor.
2. “A Faithful Narrative of the Surprising Work of God” (1737)
   • Content: This work is a detailed account of the revival that took place in Northampton, Massachusetts, where Edwards was a pastor. It describes the profound spiritual awakenings and conversions that occurred, attributing them to the work of the Holy Spirit.
   • Significance: This narrative helped spread news of the revival throughout the colonies and to England, contributing to the transatlantic evangelical movement. It also established Edwards as a leading figure in the Great Awakening.
3. “Religious Affections” (1746)
   • Content: In this treatise, Edwards explores the nature of true religion and the distinguishing marks of genuine Christian experience. He argues that authentic religious affections are rooted in the heart and produce lasting spiritual fruit.
   • Significance: This work is considered one of Edwards’ most important contributions to Christian theology and psychology. It provides a complex understanding of religious experience and remains influential in both academic and religious circles.
4. “The Freedom of the Will” (1754)
   • Content: In this philosophical work, Edwards defends the Calvinist doctrine of predestination and argues against the Arminian view of free will. He posits that true freedom is compatible with God’s sovereignty and that human choices are determined by the strongest motive.
   • Significance: This treatise is a seminal work in American philosophy and theology, offering a rigorous and systematic defense of Calvinist thought. It has been studied and debated by theologians and philosophers for centuries.
5. Other Notable Works:
   • “The End for Which God Created the World” (written in the 1750s, published posthumously): This work discusses the ultimate purpose of creation, arguing that God’s glory is the final end of all things.
   • “The Life of David Brainerd” (1749): A biography of the missionary David Brainerd, which inspired many subsequent missionaries and remains a classic in missionary literature.

Jonathan Edwards’ writings are characterized by their intellectual rigor, theological depth, and passionate spirituality. His works continue to be studied for their profound insights into human nature, religious experience, and the character of God. Edwards’ legacy as a preacher, theologian, and philosopher has left an indelible mark on American religious and intellectual history.

Impact on American Culture and Literature

Puritan literature had a profound impact on American culture and literature, shaping both the nation’s early intellectual framework and its literary traditions. Emerging from the 16th and 17th centuries, Puritan writing was deeply rooted in religious conviction, moral rigor, and a commitment to simplicity and clarity. This influence extended into various facets of American life and letters in several key ways:

1. Religious and Moral Foundations

Puritan literature was primarily theological and reflective, focusing on the interpretation of the Bible, the exploration of God’s will, and the examination of personal piety. Texts such as sermons, diaries, and religious tracts were prevalent, with notable examples including:

• John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity” (1630): This sermon outlined the idea of America as a “city upon a hill,” emphasizing communal responsibility and moral integrity.
• Cotton Mather’s “Magnalia Christi Americana” (1702): This work chronicled the religious history of New England and celebrated the Puritan mission.

These works instilled a sense of collective identity and moral purpose, influencing the ethical underpinnings of American culture.

2. Themes of Individualism and Community

Puritan writings often balanced the importance of the individual’s relationship with God and the necessity of a cohesive, morally upright community. This duality influenced American literature’s emphasis on both individualism and social responsibility. The Puritans’ focus on self-examination and personal conscience can be seen in later American literary figures such as:

• Nathaniel Hawthorne: His novels, including “The Scarlet Letter” and “The House of the Seven Gables,” explore themes of sin, guilt, and redemption within the context of Puritanical society.
• Henry David Thoreau: His work, especially “Walden,” reflects a deep introspection and the importance of personal conscience and simplicity, mirroring Puritan self-scrutiny.

3. Plain Style Prose

The Puritans valued plainness and clarity in writing, avoiding elaborate language to ensure their messages were accessible and straightforward. This plain style influenced American prose, promoting clarity and directness in communication. This stylistic preference is evident in:

• Benjamin Franklin’s “Autobiography”: His straightforward and unadorned prose style reflects the Puritan emphasis on clear, honest communication.
• Mark Twain’s works: Twain’s writing, while more humorous and irreverent, also employs a clear, engaging style that can be traced back to the Puritan preference for plainness.

4. Educational Legacy

Puritans placed a high value on education, primarily for religious purposes, which led to the establishment of schools and colleges, including Harvard in 1636. This emphasis on literacy and learning contributed to a culture that valued intellectualism and critical thinking. This educational tradition fostered a literate society that could engage with complex texts and ideas, setting the stage for America’s rich literary tradition.

5. Cultural and Literary Critique

Puritan literature’s intense focus on moral rectitude and the human condition laid the groundwork for a tradition of cultural and literary critique in American literature. Writers who followed often grappled with the tension between societal expectations and individual desires, exploring themes of hypocrisy, repression, and freedom. Examples include:

• Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible”: This play, while set during the Salem witch trials, critiques the moral hysteria and ideological rigidity that characterized both Puritan society and McCarthyism in the 20th century.
• Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick“: Melville’s complex narrative examines themes of obsession, morality, and human fallibility, echoing Puritanical concerns with sin and redemption.

Critiques and Limitations

Puritan literature, while foundational to American culture and literature, also faced significant critiques and limitations. These critiques highlight various aspects of Puritan writing and thought that have been seen as restrictive, problematic, or out of step with broader literary and cultural developments.

1. Religious Dogmatism and Intolerance

One of the primary critiques of Puritan literature is its strict religious dogmatism and intolerance of differing beliefs. Puritan writing often reflects a rigid worldview that demands strict adherence to specific religious doctrines. This rigidity can be seen as stifling intellectual and spiritual freedom, contributing to social and cultural repression.

• John Cotton: His writings, including “The Way of the Churches of Christ in New England,” exhibit an uncompromising stance on religious conformity, which led to the persecution of dissenters like Anne Hutchinson and Roger Williams.

2. Moral Stringency and Hypocrisy

Puritan literature’s intense focus on morality and sin has been critiqued for fostering an environment of hypocrisy and judgment. The high moral standards often portrayed in Puritan texts created a culture of fear and guilt, where individuals were constantly scrutinized for their behavior.

• Nathaniel Hawthorne: In works such as “The Scarlet Letter,” Hawthorne critiques the moral absolutism and hypocrisy of Puritan society, illustrating the harsh consequences of public shaming and the discrepancy between private sins and public virtue.

3. Lack of Artistic and Emotional Expression

The Puritan emphasis on plainness and utilitarianism in writing has been critiqued for limiting artistic and emotional expression. The preference for straightforward, didactic prose often resulted in literature that was more focused on religious instruction than on exploring the complexities of human experience and emotion.

• Anne Bradstreet: While Bradstreet’s poetry is a notable exception, blending personal reflection with religious devotion, much of Puritan literature lacks the emotional depth and artistic flourish found in the works of later American writers.

4. Gender Roles and Patriarchal Structures

Puritan literature often reinforces traditional gender roles and patriarchal structures, limiting the voices and experiences of women. The Puritan focus on male authority and female subservience is evident in both religious and social writings.

• Mary Rowlandson’s “Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration”: While Rowlandson’s work provides a rare female perspective, it also reflects the patriarchal mindset of the time, emphasizing her reliance on male authority and divine providence.

5. Limited Scope and Perspective

Puritan literature is often criticized for its narrow scope and insular perspective, focusing predominantly on the religious experiences and concerns of a specific group. This limited perspective can be seen as excluding the diverse experiences and voices of other communities, particularly indigenous peoples, African slaves, and other marginalized groups.

• Michael Wigglesworth’s “The Day of Doom”: This work exemplifies the Puritan preoccupation with eschatology and divine judgment, neglecting broader cultural and social issues.

6. Psychological and Social Repression

The intense focus on sin and salvation in Puritan literature has been critiqued for contributing to psychological and social repression. The constant emphasis on self-examination and fear of damnation could lead to internal conflict and societal tension.

• Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible”: Miller’s portrayal of the Salem witch trials serves as a critique of the paranoia and repression that characterized Puritan society, illustrating the destructive consequences of a culture driven by fear and suspicion.

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