1. The Puritans

2. One Last Note on Explorers… Values Seen in Contemporary Society  Capitalism  Greed  Prejudice  Discovery

3. Puritan Background  Fled from England to escape religious persecution. –Tried to “purify” the Anglican Church. –AKA Separatists & Pilgrims  Sailed to New England in 1620 –Native Americans were helpful (Thanksgiving) –Puritans believed that Native Americans were linked to the Devil.

4. Religion  Religion was the center of Puritan life. –Believed in a vengeful, angry God. –People are sinners (Original Sin)  Only through devotion to God can you be saved. Hoped to establish a “city on a hill,” a beacon for the whole world to see.

5. Lifestyle  Dedication to hard work –“Puritan” work ethic as a way to salvation  The Devil is everywhere –Must be vigilant at all times to resist his charms. –Salem Witch Trials: Witches = Devil’s Brides  Committed to education –Founded Harvard University to educate ministry

6. Puritan Writing  Writing served as a means to praise God. –No fiction or drama –Fiction is the devil’s style!  Poetry –First American poets are Puritans. –Poetry is plain—concerned about message over form –Other writings including sermons, histories, and autobiographies.

7. Essential Questions  To what extent should religion influence our society?  How do fear and paranoia influence our decisions?  How important is your reputation?