Societal Events and Characteristics of Writing in Early America Notes
Puritanism of New England-
Origin- To “Purify’ the Church of England
Puritan Types:
“Separating” Puritans believed the Church of England was corrupt and true Christians must separate themselves from it.
Ex: Plymouth colonist
“Non-separating” Puritans believed in reform but not separation
Ex: Massachusetts Bay colonists
Puritan Beliefs:
Predestination
Puritans believed that belief in Jesus and service could not alone effect one’s salvation
God chooses those who will be saved and those who will receive God’s irresistible grace
Covenants/Agreements: eternal life given by obeying moral law, active faith, redemption
“God’s word” served as the ultimate political and religious authority.
Puritan Writing
Simplest form is plain style.
Avoidance of common language features
More of a focus on religion and philosophy
Puritan Sermon has three parts: doctrine, reasons, and uses (or application).
Common authors were religious figures (mostly preachers) intending to spread their messages to the town.
Strengthening obedience to God and Puritan life
Famous Author: Anne Bradstreet
Well-educated for her time
Especially for a woman of this time
Free thinker
Early feminist or “complementarian”
Have different roles but both are equally important
First poet and female writer to be published
In the New England colonies
Her writing showed how it was to be a puritan woman
Varying perspectives about her writing
Intended audience
Mostly dairy entries
Metaphors
Nature symbolism
Themes
Morality
The role of women
Plain style
Rebellious
Even from a modern stand point
The Salem Witch Trials of 1692
The most notable instance of hysteria.
Began in winter of 1691 in Salem Village of Salem, Massachusetts.
A group of girls made a crystal ball to tell their futures
Last execution was recorded on September 22, 1692.
185 accused- 141 women, 44 men
52 women and 7 men tried in court
26 women and 5 men convicted
14 women and 4 men executed
First witch cases were recorded in 1656
Defining a witch:
Why women?
Age
Over 40; Even more over 60
Wealth
Inheritance
Property
Control
Revenge
Jealousy
Stealing another woman’s man
Men convicted were mostly those related to convicted women (see wealth)
Once convicted, it sticks