Puritan Meaning: Definition and Examples
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puritan
[ˈpjʊərɪtən ]
Definition
historical context
A Puritan was a member of a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to purify the Church of England from what they considered to be corruption and unnecessary rituals. They emphasized a strict moral code, individual piety, and the authority of scripture. Puritans played a significant role in the early history of the United States, particularly in establishing New England colonies. Their beliefs often led to conflicts with other religious groups and the government, contributing to events like the English Civil War.
Synonyms
Protestant, ascetic, fanatic, zealot.
Examples of usage
- The Puritans settled in New England in search of religious freedom.
- Many Puritans believed in predestination and the importance of a godly life.
- The writings of Puritans often focused on spiritual introspection and morality.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The Puritans emerged in the late 16th century in England as a reform movement within the Church of England, advocating for a return to simpler forms of worship.
- They faced persecution in England, which led many to migrate to America in the early 17th century seeking religious freedom.
- The term 'Puritan' was originally used as a derogatory label, but it became a badge of pride for those who identified with the movement.
Cultural Impact
- Puritan ethics heavily influenced American culture, emphasizing hard work, frugality, and a sense of community responsibility.
- Their strict moral codes shaped early American laws, particularly in areas related to personal behavior and community standards.
- Many modern educational institutions, like Harvard, were founded by Puritans to educate clergy and promote their religious values.
Religion
- Puritans believed in predestination, the idea that God has already chosen who will be saved and who will be damned.
- They placed significant importance on the Bible as the sole authority in matters of faith and conduct, rejecting traditions they viewed as corrupt.
- Worship for Puritans was simpler and more austere, often focused on sermons and individual reflection rather than elaborate rituals.
Literature
- Puritan writing often focused on morality, personal reflection, and the nature of sin, with notable figures like Anne Bradstreet and Jonathan Edwards emerging from this period.
- The Puritans contributed to the early American literary tradition, using plain, straightforward language to resonate with their audience.
- Their diaries and sermons provide valuable insights into the daily lives and beliefs of early American settlers.
Modern Usage
- Today, 'Puritan' can describe someone with strict moral beliefs, often used in discussions about censorship or social issues.
- The term is sometimes used humorously to imply someone is overly serious or disapproving about people enjoying life.
- Puritanical attitudes are often explored in contemporary media, highlighting ongoing conversations about morality and freedom.
Origin of 'puritan'
The term 'Puritan' originated in the late 16th century in England, initially used in a derogatory sense to describe those who sought greater holiness and separation from the Church of England. Puritans emerged during the Protestant Reformation as a faction that aimed to eliminate what they viewed as remnants of Catholicism in the Anglican Church. Many Puritans migrated to America in the early 17th century, particularly to New England, where they established an influential societal and religious framework. They contributed significantly to American culture and politics but were often at odds with those holding differing beliefs, leading to strict laws governing moral behavior in their communities. Over time, the term evolved, and while it still suggests a rigid moral code, it can also imply a broader sense of earnestness or intensity in one's beliefs or practices.