Date of Award
2019
Type
Thesis
Major
English Language and Literature - Literature Concentration
Degree Type
Bachelor of Arts in English
Department
English
First Advisor
Dr. Judith Livingston
Second Advisor
Dr. Ramesh Rao
Third Advisor
Laura Pate
Abstract
This research focuses on the English Puritans' history, theology, religious practice, and joy. The historical context of the group is crucial to understanding their literature and culture. They lived in a time where they were persecuted for their strict beliefs, fighting for their idea of the purity of God's word. Their theology came out of the Reformation and continued to evolve as scholars and theologians expounded on texts of the Bible. The theology that they held dear bled into the practice of their religion that undoubtedly had joy. My textual analysis of The Valley of Vision shows the Puritans' hearts towards their God and the joy they found in him. The text supports the claim stated in the historical research that argues for their joy despite their strict practice. Following the historical research and textual analysis is an 8-week devotional based off of Puritan literature. Each week focuses on a different Puritan, containing a biography, excerpts from their work, my commentary, and a bible verse that applies to the text.
Recommended Citation
Hutchinson, Jacquelyn, "English Puritans: Their History, Theology, Practice, and Joy English Puritan Devotional" (2019). Theses and Dissertations. 634.
https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/634
