The Puritan Age (1620–1660) in English literature reflects the cultural, religious, and political upheavals of the time. It is marked by strict Puritan beliefs, which influenced the themes, style, and purpose of literary works. This period is often called the Age of Milton, as John Milton was its most prominent literary figure. Below are the main literary features of the Puritan Age with examples to help students of English literature understand and write better answers.
1. Dominance of Religion and Morality
Literature during this period was deeply influenced by Puritanism, which emphasized strict moral values and religious themes. Writers often used their works to teach religious and ethical lessons. For example, John Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost explores the Biblical story of the Fall of Man and conveys the themes of obedience to God and redemption through Christ.
2. Serious and Somber Tone
The literature of the Puritan Age lacked the lightheartedness and humor seen in earlier periods. The tone was often serious, reflecting the Puritans’ focus on morality and the struggles of life. Richard Baxter's The Saints' Everlasting Rest is a good example of the somber and reflective tone of Puritan prose.
3. Personal and Introspective Writing
The Puritan emphasis on self-examination and personal connection with God led to introspective writing. This can be seen in John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim's Progress, an allegory of a Christian's journey toward salvation. The story is deeply personal, as it reflects Bunyan’s own spiritual struggles.
4. Allegory and Symbolism
Puritan writers often used allegory to convey their religious and moral messages. John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress is rich in allegory, with characters like Christian (symbolizing the faithful believer) and Evangelist (representing a spiritual guide). The journey in the story symbolizes the Christian path toward salvation.
5. Simplicity of Style
Puritan literature focused on clear and simple language to ensure that its moral and religious messages were accessible to all readers. For example, Bunyan's prose is straightforward, using plain vocabulary and avoiding ornate or decorative language.
6. Emphasis on Biblical Themes
Writers during this period drew heavily from the Bible for their subject matter. Milton's Paradise Lost and Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress are both rooted in Biblical stories and teachings. Even lesser-known writers often referred to Biblical events, characters, and morals in their works.
7. Political and Social Commentary
The Puritan Age was also a time of political unrest, including the English Civil War. Writers like John Milton addressed political themes in their works. Milton's Areopagitica, a prose work, is a powerful defense of freedom of speech and the press, reflecting the political concerns of the age.
8. Decline of Drama
The Puritan government viewed theater as immoral, leading to a decline in drama during this period. Theatres were closed in 1642 under Puritan rule, and no significant dramatic works were produced. The focus shifted to poetry and prose instead.
Examples of Key Writers and Works
- John Milton: Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained, Areopagitica
- John Bunyan: The Pilgrim’s Progress
- Richard Baxter: The Saints' Everlasting Rest
Conclusion
The Puritan Age was a time when literature became a medium to reflect religious, moral, and political concerns. The works of this period are characterized by their serious tone, introspection, and Biblical themes. Writers like John Milton and John Bunyan created masterpieces that continue to be studied for their literary and historical significance. Students preparing for exams can focus on these key features and examples to write comprehensive and insightful answers.
