Puritan Society

Definition

Puritan society refers to the social and cultural framework established by the Puritans, a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to purify the Church of England from its Catholic practices. This society was characterized by strict moral codes, a focus on religious devotion, and communal governance, deeply influencing early American life and values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puritan society placed a strong emphasis on education, leading to the establishment of schools and Harvard College to ensure literacy for reading the Bible.
2. Communal worship was essential, with church attendance being mandatory and sermons focusing on moral behavior and community cohesion.
3. The Puritans believed in a 'city upon a hill,' viewing their society as an example of godly living intended to inspire others.
4. Strict moral codes governed daily life, discouraging activities deemed sinful such as gambling, dancing, and excessive leisure.
5. The legal system in Puritan society was heavily influenced by their religious beliefs, with harsh punishments for sins and moral transgressions.

Review Questions

• How did the principles of predestination influence the behavior and social dynamics within Puritan society?
  • In Puritan society, the belief in predestination led individuals to focus intensely on their moral conduct and spiritual state. They believed that demonstrating signs of being among the 'elect' would indicate their salvation. This created a culture where self-examination and community scrutiny were paramount, leading to a collective anxiety about one's standing before God. As a result, people felt compelled to adhere strictly to moral codes and engage in pious behavior, reinforcing social conformity.
• Discuss how the concept of a 'city upon a hill' shaped the identity and aspirations of Puritan communities.
  • The notion of a 'city upon a hill' significantly influenced how Puritans viewed themselves and their mission in the New World. It symbolized their aspiration to create a morally upright society that would serve as a model for others. This concept fostered a sense of pride among Puritans but also set them up for failure; they felt immense pressure to uphold these ideals, leading to rigidity in social norms and intolerance toward dissenters. The idea acted as both an inspiration and a burden as they navigated their communal existence.
• Evaluate the impact of Puritan society on modern American values, particularly regarding individualism and communal responsibility.
  • Puritan society laid foundational values that continue to shape modern American culture, particularly in relation to individualism and communal responsibility. The emphasis on personal piety and self-discipline fostered a spirit of individualism, encouraging people to take personal responsibility for their faith and moral conduct. Simultaneously, Puritans’ commitment to community governance highlighted the importance of collective accountability. This duality is still evident today in American attitudes towards both individual rights and community involvement, reflecting a complex balance between personal freedom and social obligation.

Related terms

Theocracy: A system of government in which priests or religious leaders control the political power, often seen in Puritan settlements where laws were based on religious principles.

Predestination: The belief that God has predetermined who will be saved and who will be damned, a central tenet of Puritan theology that shaped their worldview.

Covenant Theology: A framework used by Puritans to understand God's relationship with humanity, emphasizing the idea of agreements or covenants between God and His people.