PURITAIN

Your Name Course and Section Professor's Name June 11, 2024 Mary Rowlandson and Anne Bradstreet – Puritan Perspectives on Faith and Adversity This essay compares and contrasts the two well-known Puritan writers, Mary Rowlandson and Anne Bradstreet, whose works are primarily based on the main character's religious beliefs and extraordinary experiences. In comparison, Rowlandson uses a simplistic narrative approach to her captivity narrative, whereas Bradstreet uses symbolism, especially in her poetry. In this regard, this essay aims to assess their biographies, thematic interests, and stylistic strategies in a way that will shed some light on texts that defined early American literature. Mary Rowlandson This paper discusses the cultural values, beliefs, and writing style evident in Mary Rowlandson's theological account of captivity, "The Sovereignty and Goodness of God. " Rowlandson's work began in England in 1637, evident from her portrayal of King Philip's War, where she was captured (Rowaldson). Recalling her experience, she tells us about her 11-week captivity by Native Americans while focusing on her belief and hope. In this case, it becomes apparent that Rowlandson possesses specific values when portraying faith and spirituality. Thus, she puts it, "Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and hath set his heart unto the path of thy testimonies More bitter than death is an affliction, which hath made me obey thy statutes. " (Rowlandson 1682). Despite not having complex descriptions or embellishments in her narrative, which are hallmarks of a literary genre, her unrelenting drive to tell her story remains evident. Rowlandson's beliefs about adversity and the ability ...