Think like a puritan answer key: Delve into the intriguing world of Puritanism, where unwavering beliefs and a distinct way of life shaped a society governed by strict principles. This comprehensive guide offers a profound understanding of Puritanism, its impact on daily life, and its lasting legacy on American culture.

Uncover the core tenets of Puritanism, exploring their beliefs about sin, salvation, and the role of the individual in society. Witness how these beliefs permeated every aspect of Puritan life, influencing their decisions, social interactions, and even their art and literature.

Puritan Beliefs and Values

Puritanism emerged in the 16th and 17th centuries as a Protestant movement that sought to purify the Church of England from what they perceived as Catholic influences. Puritans believed in the sovereignty of God, the depravity of humanity, and the importance of personal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

They also emphasized the importance of hard work, thrift, and self-discipline.

Puritan beliefs had a profound impact on their daily lives and decision-making. For example, they believed that all people were born sinful and that only through the grace of God could they be saved. This belief led them to emphasize the importance of personal piety and to seek out ways to demonstrate their faith.

They also believed that God had a plan for each individual and that it was their duty to discover and fulfill that plan. This belief led them to be very conscientious about their work and to seek out opportunities to improve themselves.

Puritan Beliefs about Sin, Think like a puritan answer key

Puritans believed that sin was a serious offense against God. They believed that all people were born with a sinful nature and that even the smallest sin could separate them from God. They also believed that sin had eternal consequences and that those who died in their sins would be condemned to hell.

Puritan Beliefs about Salvation

Puritans believed that salvation was a gift from God that could not be earned. They believed that salvation was based on faith alone and that those who had faith in Jesus Christ would be saved from the wrath of God.

They also believed that salvation was a process that began with conversion and continued throughout a person’s life.

Puritan Beliefs about the Role of the Individual in Society

Puritans believed that each individual had a responsibility to serve God and to contribute to the well-being of society. They believed that all people were equal in the eyes of God and that they should treat each other with respect.

They also believed that it was important to be involved in the community and to work together for the common good.

Puritan Social and Political Structure

Puritan society was highly hierarchical, with a clear emphasis on order and authority. This structure was reflected in both the social and political spheres, with the church and the government playing key roles in enforcing Puritan values and maintaining social control.

Social Hierarchy

• Ministers: At the top of the social hierarchy were the ministers, who were seen as the spiritual leaders of the community. They were responsible for preaching the gospel, administering the sacraments, and providing guidance to their congregations.
• Magistrates: Next in the hierarchy were the magistrates, who were responsible for enforcing the laws and maintaining order. They were typically elected by the community and served for a term of one year.
• Freemen: Freemen were male members of the community who had been admitted to the church. They had the right to vote and hold office.
• Women: Women were subordinate to men in Puritan society. They were expected to be obedient to their husbands and fathers and to focus on their domestic duties.
• Children: Children were also subordinate to their parents. They were expected to obey their parents and to respect their elders.

Political Structure

The Puritans believed that the government should be based on the Bible. They believed that God had ordained the government to rule over the people and to enforce His laws. The government was therefore seen as a sacred institution, and its authority was not to be questioned.

The Puritan government was a theocracy, which means that it was ruled by religious leaders. The ministers were the most powerful figures in the government, and they had a great deal of influence over the laws and policies that were enacted.

Puritan Education and Literacy

Education and literacy were highly valued in Puritan society. Puritans believed that an educated citizenry was essential for maintaining a godly and prosperous community. Education was seen as a way to prepare young people for their roles in society and to help them understand the Bible and live according to its teachings.

Puritan schools and colleges were designed to shape the minds of young people and prepare them for their roles in society. The curriculum emphasized the study of the Bible, as well as reading, writing, and arithmetic. Students were also taught about history, geography, and science.

The goal of Puritan education was to produce well-rounded individuals who were able to think critically and make informed decisions.

Puritan Schools

Puritan schools were typically small, one-room schoolhouses. They were often located in churches or other public buildings. The school day began with prayer and the reading of the Bible. Students then spent the rest of the day studying a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, arithmetic, history, geography, and science.

Puritan schools were strict and disciplined. Students were expected to be obedient and respectful. They were also expected to work hard and to learn as much as they could. Failure to meet these expectations could result in punishment.

Puritan Colleges

Puritan colleges were founded to train ministers and other leaders for the Puritan community. The first Puritan college was Harvard College, which was founded in 1636. Other Puritan colleges included Yale College, Princeton University, and Dartmouth College.

Puritan colleges were similar to Puritan schools in many ways. They were small, one-room schoolhouses that were often located in churches or other public buildings. The school day began with prayer and the reading of the Bible. Students then spent the rest of the day studying a variety of subjects, including theology, philosophy, history, and science.

Puritan colleges were also strict and disciplined. Students were expected to be obedient and respectful. They were also expected to work hard and to learn as much as they could. Failure to meet these expectations could result in punishment.

Puritan Art and Literature

Puritan art and literature were characterized by simplicity, didacticism, and the glorification of God. They sought to create works that would instruct and inspire their audience, rather than entertain them.

Puritan sermons were often long and complex, filled with theological arguments and moral lessons. They were meant to be educational and persuasive, and they often lasted for several hours.

Puritan Poetry

Puritan poetry was also didactic in nature, but it was often more lyrical and personal than sermons. Puritan poets often wrote about their own spiritual experiences, and they used their poetry to express their love for God and their desire for salvation.

Some of the most famous Puritan poets include Anne Bradstreet, Edward Taylor, and Michael Wigglesworth. Bradstreet was the first woman to publish a book of poetry in the American colonies. Her work is often praised for its honesty and emotional depth.

Other Literary Works

In addition to sermons and poetry, Puritans also produced a variety of other literary works, including histories, biographies, and theological treatises. These works were often written to promote Puritan beliefs and values, and they played an important role in shaping the intellectual and religious life of the Puritan community.

Puritan Influence on American Culture

Puritanism left an indelible mark on the fabric of American culture. Their unwavering beliefs and values continue to shape American institutions, laws, and social norms, even centuries after their time.

Government and Politics

• Puritans believed in a strong, centralized government based on biblical principles. This influence is evident in the American system of government, which features a separation of powers and a system of checks and balances.
• Puritans also emphasized the importance of civic duty and participation in government. This belief has fostered a strong tradition of civic engagement and volunteerism in American society.

Education

Puritans placed great value on education, believing that it was essential for both religious and civic life. They established the first colleges in America, such as Harvard and Yale, which continue to be prestigious institutions of higher learning.

Social Norms

• Puritan values of hard work, thrift, and self-reliance have become deeply ingrained in American culture. These values have contributed to the country’s economic success and its strong work ethic.
• Puritans also emphasized the importance of family and community. These beliefs have influenced American family values and the importance placed on social support networks.

Religion

While Puritanism is no longer the dominant religious force in America, its influence on the country’s religious landscape is still evident. Many American denominations, such as Congregationalism and Presbyterianism, trace their roots to Puritanism.

Question & Answer Hub: Think Like A Puritan Answer Key

What were the key beliefs of the Puritans?

The Puritans believed in the sovereignty of God, the depravity of humanity, the necessity of salvation through Jesus Christ, and the importance of living a life in accordance with God’s laws.

How did Puritanism influence American culture?

Puritanism had a profound impact on American culture, shaping its institutions, laws, and social norms. Puritan values such as hard work, thrift, and education became deeply ingrained in American society.

What were the characteristics of Puritan art and literature?

Puritan art and literature were characterized by their simplicity, didacticism, and glorification of God. Puritan sermons, poetry, and other literary works often focused on themes of sin, salvation, and the importance of living a righteous life.