Puritan and Revolutionary Literature Lesson: An Easy Guide

Lesson Overview

• Background: Early American Literary Periods
• Interactive Activities and Engagement

This lesson explores Puritan and Revolutionary Literature, two foundational periods of early American writing. By the end, students should understand the differences between Puritan and Revolutionary literature, appreciate their significance, and feel confident tackling typical exam questions on this topic.

Background: Early American Literary Periods

American literature up to 1800 spans distinct phases: Puritan/Colonial and Revolutionary/Enlightenment. Puritan literature flourished in New England from the early 1600s to mid-1700s, reflecting the settlers' deeply religious society. By the mid-1700s, as Enlightenment ideas spread and tensions with Britain grew, Revolutionary literature emerged, fueled by calls for independence and political debate.

Puritan Literature (1620–1750)

Purpose and Themes: Puritan writing was intended to teach moral lessons and glorify God. Common themes include faith, sin and redemption, self-examination, and predestination. Writing frequently conveyed the idea of living a pious life to avoid eternal damnation.

Genres and Style: Puritan literature was typically plain in style and straightforward. Works were often personal and private – diaries, journals, sermons, and religious poems – rather than published for mass public reading. Biblical allusions appear frequently.

Notable Puritan Authors & Works:

• William Bradford – Of Plymouth Plantation (diary documenting the Pilgrims' experiences, written in a simple and factual tone).

• Anne Bradstreet – To My Dear and Loving Husband, Upon the Burning of Our House (poetry blending domestic experiences with faith).

• Jonathan Edwards – Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God (sermon using fear to encourage religious devotion).

• Mary Rowlandson – A Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration (captivity narrative reinforcing Puritan faith under trial).

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Literature quiz questions and answers

Revolutionary Literature (1750–1800)

Purpose and Themes: Revolutionary literature reflects the colonists' drive toward independence, rational inquiry, and democratic ideals. The goal was to convince or motivate others – whether to join the patriot cause, endure hardships of war, or shape the new nation's identity. Key themes include liberty and individual rights, reason and enlightenment, patriotism, justice, and governance.

Genres and Style: Pamphlets, essays, speeches, and official documents were the dominant genres. These were meant for public consumption rather than private reflection. The writing style was persuasive, tailored to sway public opinion.

Notable Revolutionary Authors & Works:

• Thomas Paine – Common Sense (pamphlet advocating for independence in a clear, passionate style), The American Crisis (inspirational essays).

• Thomas Jefferson – Declaration of Independence (philosophical statement of human rights and grievances against Britain).

• Patrick Henry – Speech to the Virginia Convention ("Give me liberty or give me death!" speech inspiring revolution).

• Benjamin Franklin – Poor Richard's Almanack (practical advice and witty sayings), Autobiography (emphasis on self-improvement and reason).

• Phillis Wheatley – Poetry that engaged with Revolutionary themes, despite being written by an enslaved African American woman.

Comparing Puritan and Revolutionary Literature

Key Differences:

• Focus: Puritan literature was primarily religious, while Revolutionary literature was primarily political.

• Purpose: Puritan writers aimed to nurture faith; Revolutionary writers aimed to inspire action or change opinions on governance.

• Audience: Puritan writings were often private (diaries, sermons); Revolutionary writings were public (speeches, pamphlets).

• Tone & Style: Puritan tone was earnest and introspective, while Revolutionary tone was persuasive and outward-facing.

• Content & Genre: Puritan content included spiritual diaries and sermons; Revolutionary content included political essays, speeches, and declarations.

• View of Authority: Puritan texts reinforced religious authority; Revolutionary texts questioned or attacked political authority.

Interactive Activities and Engagement

• "While Puritan literature was private and religious, Revolutionary literature was public and __________." (Answer: political)

• Name one key theme of Puritan literature and one key theme of Revolutionary literature.

• Identify whether a given quote comes from a Puritan or Revolutionary writer.

• "Which type of literature did you find more engaging – Puritan or Revolutionary – and why?"