The Puritan Experience

This book explores Puritan spiritual autobiographies from before 1725, discussing the literary tradition they emerged from and the social, religious, and literary factors that influenced their development. It identifies 3 strands in the tradition and shows how the self-analysis popularized by Puritan preachers and writers contributed to the development of the novel.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1972, this comprehensive work delves into the examination of Puritan spiritual autobiographies penned prior to 1725. Through extensive research and the utilization of diverse source materials, including manuscripts, the book provides a rich contextualization of these autobiographies within the broader literary tradition from which they emerged. In addition to renowned figures such as John Bunyan, Richard Baxter, and George Fox, the book also explores significant works that have received less attention, notably the Confessions of Richard Norwood, a Bermudan settler.

The book identifies three distinct strands within this tradition: the work of the "orthodox Puritans," the prophets of the Commonwealth, and the confessions and journals of the early Quakers. It delves into the social, religious, and literary factors that shaped their development, highlighting the influence of self-analysis popularized by Puritan preachers and writers on the evolution of the novel. This work holds particular value for those with an interest in 17th-century literature and religion, offering a comprehensive and insightful exploration of this pivotal period in English history.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367628772