Diligence

Definition

Diligence refers to the careful and persistent effort put into a task or duty. This concept emphasizes a strong work ethic, responsibility, and attention to detail, highlighting the importance of dedication in achieving goals. In the context of early American literature, especially within Puritan beliefs, diligence represents not only personal virtue but also a moral obligation to work hard and live righteously in accordance with one's faith.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Diligence is often depicted in Puritan poetry as a pathway to both earthly success and spiritual salvation.
2. Anne Bradstreet's works reflect the theme of diligence through her portrayal of personal struggles and the rewards of hard work.
3. The Puritans believed that diligence was essential for demonstrating one's worthiness for God's grace and favor.
4. In Puritan culture, laziness was considered a sin, reinforcing the value placed on diligence as a moral imperative.
5. Diligence in the context of Puritan poetry can be seen as an expression of faith, linking one's efforts with divine providence and purpose.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of diligence manifest in Anne Bradstreet's poetry, particularly regarding her views on personal struggle?
  • In Anne Bradstreet's poetry, diligence manifests through her reflections on personal challenges and the persistent effort she puts into her roles as a mother, wife, and poet. She illustrates how hard work and commitment to her family and faith are not only necessary for personal fulfillment but also reflect her dedication to God. This intertwining of daily life and spiritual purpose showcases how her diligence becomes an integral part of her identity and artistic expression.
• Discuss the role of diligence in shaping the Puritan work ethic and its implications for early American society.
  • Diligence played a crucial role in shaping the Puritan work ethic, which emphasized hard work as a manifestation of faith and a means to achieve both personal and communal goals. This belief system contributed to early American society by promoting values like self-discipline, frugality, and perseverance. As communities grew, this emphasis on diligence not only fostered economic development but also reinforced social norms around morality and individual responsibility within a religious framework.
• Evaluate how the theme of diligence in Puritan literature reflects broader societal values during the 17th century in America.
  • The theme of diligence in Puritan literature reflects broader societal values by illustrating how hard work was intertwined with notions of morality, faith, and success during the 17th century in America. This period emphasized that diligent effort was essential not only for material prosperity but also for spiritual salvation. Consequently, literature from this time often highlighted the relationship between individual perseverance and divine approval, reinforcing the idea that one's earthly endeavors were a reflection of their commitment to God and their community.

Related terms

Puritan Work Ethic: A belief system that emphasizes hard work, discipline, and frugality as a result of one's faith, often seen as a path to salvation.

Virtue: Moral excellence and righteousness that is highly valued within Puritan beliefs, closely tied to notions of hard work and integrity.

Grace:

In Puritan thought, grace is the unearned favor of God, which individuals strive to demonstrate through their diligent actions and moral living.