Puritanism

Definition

Puritanism was a religious reform movement that arose in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, advocating for a more rigorous adherence to biblical principles and a simplification of worship practices. It emphasized personal piety, moral purity, and the sovereignty of God, profoundly influencing American culture, literature, and society, particularly in the early colonial period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puritanism was rooted in England and emerged as a response to what its followers viewed as the insufficient reform of the Church of England.
2. Puritans believed in the 'priesthood of all believers,' meaning each individual had direct access to God without needing a clergy intermediary.
3. The Puritans established communities in New England where they could practice their beliefs freely, leading to the founding of several key settlements including Massachusetts Bay Colony.
4. Puritan literature often included sermons, poetry, and narratives that reflected their values, focusing on themes such as redemption, grace, and moral struggle.
5. The legacy of Puritanism can be seen in American individualism, work ethic, and social norms, which continue to influence contemporary American culture.

Review Questions

• How did Puritan beliefs shape early American literature and cultural practices?
  • Puritan beliefs had a profound impact on early American literature and cultural practices by promoting themes such as morality, redemption, and personal piety. Writers like Anne Bradstreet used poetry to express their religious convictions, while figures like Edward Taylor blended faith with metaphysical exploration. The Puritans' emphasis on hard work and community values also influenced social structures in New England settlements, leading to a distinct cultural identity that valued moral integrity and collective responsibility.
• In what ways did Puritanism intersect with the themes found in captivity narratives during the colonial period?
  • Puritanism intersected with captivity narratives by framing the experiences of captives within a theological context that emphasized providence and moral lessons. Captivity narratives often depicted the trials faced by individuals as tests of faith or opportunities for spiritual growth, reflecting Puritan beliefs about divine intervention. These stories served not only as personal accounts but also as cautionary tales that reinforced Puritan values about sin, redemption, and the importance of maintaining one's faith under duress.
• Evaluate the impact of Puritan ideology on Nathaniel Hawthorne's exploration of sin and morality in his works.
  • Nathaniel Hawthorne's exploration of sin and morality is deeply influenced by Puritan ideology, reflecting the complexity of human nature and the burden of guilt. In stories like 'The Scarlet Letter,' Hawthorne critiques strict moral codes while simultaneously engaging with themes of redemption, societal judgment, and personal conscience. His characters often grapple with their Puritan heritage, embodying the tension between individual desires and communal expectations. This interaction highlights both the enduring influence of Puritan thought on American literature and its critique within Hawthorne's nuanced narratives.

Related terms

Calvinism: A branch of Protestantism that follows the theological traditions and doctrines of John Calvin, focusing on the sovereignty of God and the doctrine of predestination.

Covenant Theology: A framework for understanding God's relationship with humanity through covenants, emphasizing the idea of a special agreement between God and His people.

The Great Awakening: A series of religious revivals in the American colonies during the 18th century that emphasized personal faith and emotional expressions of religious experience, building on some Puritan ideals.