Reflection Blog: Plymouth Plantation

The History of Plymouth Plantation is very similar to the other pieces of literature written by the Puritans. "A Narrative of Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson" by Mary Rowlandson  and "Upon the Burning of our House" by Anne Bradstreet, are the only other Puritan writings we have read so far, but they seem to have similar themes. One of these themes would be their unmistakable presence of their faith in their writings. This is a huge characteristic of the Puritans and it is not surprising that their beliefs are seen in their literature as well. They not only just mention their relationship with God, but more so revolve their relationship with God around what they are experiencing and therefore writing. They definitely do not lay it on thinly. I think this is a very admirable trait of the Puritans and I can appreciate that they are not afraid to be and express themselves just the way they are through their writing. Plymouth Plantation talks a lot about how God helped them and was always there for them. I think one of the themes of this writing would be exactly that. How God can help you overcome obstacles if you simply put your faith in Him. "Seeing therefore the course was probable, they must rest herin Gods providence, as they had done in other things" (Bradford, Ch. V). Another characteristic of Puritan Writing that is reflected in Plymouth Plantation is how personable it is. The Puritans write very personally and honestly. An example of this would be the way that a big chunk of this literature piece is of letters. You see Bradford mentioning the dates and to whom and from whom each letter consisted of. "Your loving friend, Robart Cushman. Dartmouth, August 17. 1620" (Bradford, Ch. VIII). A similar theme with the Puritan's writings is how straight forward it is. This is something we also noticed in  "A Narrative of Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson" by Mary Rowlandson  and "Upon the Burning of our House" by Anne Bradstreet. They tend to not exaggerate or complain about their unfortunate situation at the time, but simply state the facts about it saying this is what it was like. They are very humbled people, due to their trust in God, and I have yet to read about them complaining or questioning God's plan for them or their present state. This is also an admirable act and a good lesson for people to still read about today. I think that is one of the reasons that Plymouth Plantation is still taught and talked about. I actually find it very refreshing to read about the Puritans and their morals and strong faith. As a Christian, I definitely know how easy it can be to question God's plan and timing and be hesitant to trust that He has everything under control. Reading about the hardships the Puritans went through, and how that did not even shake their trust, I find so impressive. I feel like I can personally relate to them and it makes it that much more interesting and easier to read about history that may not be as exciting. The Puritans are definitely a people to model yourselves after.

Bradford, William, and Harvey Wish. Of Plymouth Plantation. New York: Capricorn, 1962. Print.