Next to the Bible, Mary Rowlandson’s Sovereignty and Goodness of God was perhaps the bestselling publication in Puritan New England. On one level, it offers a gripping story of one woman’s faith and survival during a time of war. On another level, it offers a window to understand the hopes, anxieties and challenges experienced by the colonists. Re-read Rowlandson’s Sovereignty. This time, pay close attention to her fears, observations, prejudices, and choices. What does her story reveal about Puritanism in New England? Be sure to augment your essay with materials you’ve learned from class as well as secondary research.
