Puritan Literature
Step One: Watch & Learn
- Watch the following videos: “Introduction to Puritan Literature,” “When is Thanksgiving? Colonizing America,” and “Introduction to Imagery.”
- Take notes on each of the videos. You will need to apply this information.
- There will be an open-note assessment when class resumes!
Step Two: Read & Write
- Read the “Characteristics of Puritan Literature” handout, and let me know if you have any questions.
- Read the following texts:
- Of Plymouth Plantation is a historical narrative, and these narratives are often shaped by the author's beliefs, values, and personal experiences. Moreover, these subjective influences can lead to a biased account.
- Define the following terms: “bias,” “subjective,” and “objective.” What does it mean to say an author is “biased”? What does an “objective account” mean? In what ways does this reading show Bradford’s bias as an author?
- Provide and label examples of at least three different types of imagery throughout the excerpt.
- Provide textual evidence (i.e. quotes and specific details from the texts) as you complete the following tasks.
- Explain how the unit texts illustrate each of the “characteristics of Puritan literature.”
Ms. Kosinski’s recommendation: Explain how one or more texts emphasize inward reflection. Then explain how one or more texts focus on God and the Bible. Continue this pattern until you have accounted for all of the characteristics. - Explain how faith in God influences and shapes Puritan texts.
- Explain how the unit texts illustrate each of the “characteristics of Puritan literature.”
Step Three: Creative Application
- Puritan Journal: Write a journal or diary entry that reflects the Puritan style and manner.
- Apply at least three different characteristics (from the “Characteristics of Puritan Literature” handout). 150-250 words.
- At the end of your entry, write a short paragraph (2-4 sentences) explaining how you applied at least three characteristics of Puritan literature in your writing.
- Poetic Prayer: Write a thoughtful, original prayer that incorporates the different types of imagery.
- Consider the following before writing your prayer:
- What does your faith look like? What does it sound like? What does it smell like? What does it taste like? What does it feel like? How does it move? What emotions does it evoke?
- What do you want to tell God? What are you thankful for? What are you struggling with right now? Why do you need Him?
- Your well-written prayer should contain at least twelve (12) poetic lines.
- Prayer: “a spiritual communion with God, as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession.”
- The prayer must include the seven different types of imagery.
Seven Types of Imagery: Visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, tactile, kinesthetic, organic - Highlight and label the seven different types of imagery. Please make sure these devices and their labels are accurate. As always, you should revise your work.
- Consider the following before writing your prayer: