ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Puritans did not believe literature was meant for entertainment. Major Puritan writers produced works that have also become major works appreciated as literature and not just religious writings.

Detailed explanation-2: -In fact, they engaged in a lot of recreational activities including sports, visual arts, literature, and music, and saw these pursuits as necessary for reinvigorating both body and spirit. Puritans particularly enjoyed spending time outdoors. Some of the more popular diversions were hiking, picnicking, and fishing.

Detailed explanation-3: -Both Pilgrims and Puritans wrote poetry, sermons, diaries, and autobiographies. Many of them were literate, including women. Their culture was book-centric.

Detailed explanation-4: -Puritans still opposed much of the Roman Catholic summation in the Church of England, notably the Book of Common Prayer but also the use of non-secular vestments (cap and gown) during services, the sign of the Cross in baptism, and kneeling to receive Holy Communion.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Puritans believed God had chosen a few people, “the elect, ” for salvation. The rest of humanity was condemned to eternal damnation. But no one really knew if he or she was saved or damned; Puritans lived in a constant state of spiritual anxiety, searching for signs of God’s favor or anger.