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Literary Movement Basics. Primary Areas of Value. Each literary movement we will study will emphasize the importance of the following areas: The Natural World Individuality Society God. The Puritan Period. Puritan Beliefs. Humans are basically evil
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Primary Areas of Value • Each literary movement we will study will emphasize the importance of the following areas: • The Natural World • Individuality • Society • God
Puritan Beliefs • Humans are basically evil • Predestination—God saves only those He wishes • Material wealth is a sign of a virtuous life • Only those who have been chosen by God can interpret the Bible… ministers
God • God and His word come first and foremost • The Bible was taken literally and daily life was often related to stories in the Bible
Society • For survival, Puritans emphasized working together as a group. • Focus on the idea that it takes a village to raise a child. • Also believed that the wealth a person, the more virtuous a person was. • Theocracy—laws based on religion • Scope of control very important
Society (cont’d) • Very idealistic in religion and politics • But also very pragmatic • Believed that they were the “city on the hill”… that they should be a shining example to all the world
Individual • Self-depravity: because of Adam and Eve’s sin, we are all born evil sinners. • Anything that brings pleasure is sinful • Women especially should never be left to make decisions for themselves • Focus on self detracts from focus on God.
Nature • Outside realm of control and the unknown is evil • Nature houses the unknown and the fearsome– savages and even the devil himself.
Puritan Writing • Simple– for instruction and reflection. • No entertainment • To glorify God and make him more relevant and less mysterious the common people • To convert non-believers