"Essay #1"

"Of Plymouth Plantation" holds more than one type of significance. As both a code of behavior and a historical account, it is invaluable. Chapter IX was significant as a measuring rod, and a set of rules to be followed. The unquestioning faith in God's plan, or providence, the notion that you should judge not, lest ye be judged, and other Puritan values (charity, tolerance, etc.) are extolled.

Any accomplishment or trial is by God's will, as seen on page 49 when Bradford writes, "What could now sustain them but the spirit of God and His grace?" The majority of the first paragraph is spent detailing how, by the will of God, a "proud and very profane young man" was smote with a "grievous disease"(Page 47). These examples are representative of the rest of the account as Bradford records his adventures-always giving credit for any accomplishment or trial to God.

Book X is written along the same lines as Book IX, only with more of an emphasis on documenting the actual events. For this reason, its value is one more of a historical nature. However, the later book gives as much credit to God as the first. When the settlers acquire corn to plant, Bradford responds, "the Lord is never wanting unto His in their greatest needs; let His holy name have all the praise"(Page 51). Despite the famine and death they had already suffered, Bradford still found the faith to give praise to God for the meager sustenance they had fallen upon.

Book X also details the relationship between the settlers and the Indians. The Puritan desire for unity and collective living encouraged the initial respect between the two cultures, and led to the compact with the Indians "which was faithfully kept for 54 years" (Page 55).

The value of the Mayflower Compact is both social and political. As the footnote on page 53 says, "The Mayflower Compact is important as an early American covenant instituting civil government by common consent with reference to the common good." The Mayflower Compact was the "first foundation" of democracy.

Whereas "Of Plymouth Plantation" sets the standard for Puritan conduct, "A Model of Christian Charity" (as implied by the title) is, to say the least, an expansion of those standards. Winthrop's work is actually more like the Puritan's Handbook than anything else. It is very specific, casting light over even the most shadowy aspects of Christian living, making it easy for anyone to understand and follow.

The very direct approach of "A Model of Christian Charity" gives the piece a more definite structure than "Of Plymouth Plantation." One can almost see the mental outline that Winthrop was working from. For example, when he says "There are two rules whereby we are to walk towards another: JUSTICE and MERCY"(Page 69), there's no doubt about what we ought to do, or what he'll be discussing next. He keeps his transitions simple. Even the frequent sub-points and digressions are made clear through the use of labeling ("First," "Secondly," etc.) and simplicity.

Winthrop is effectively establishing the rules for a model society. His "City upon a hill," is intended to inspire others to be their best selves, to be exemplary believers and human beings. He conveys these ideas, not by gentle suggestion alone. As the author goes on, it becomes apparent that the achievement of this standard is not a choice, but an obligation. As God's chosen people, they have a duty to show themselves as worthy. Winthrop believes that his people represent the lord himself, in the same manner that one employee represents a company, or one athlete represents a team. The actions of that individual reflect on the group. However, while some might suffer a penalty or reprimand for their behavior, Winthrop's clan has a slightly higher stake in the matter: "but if we…shall fall to embrace this present world and prosecute our carnal intentions…our Lord will surely break out in wrath against us." I think, as I'm sure Winthrop did, that being broken out against in wrath is a pretty good motivator.

But he makes even the loftiest ideals seem achievable with his eloquent thoughts. The metaphor of the body, where "Love is the bond of perfection" is overwhelming. Emphasizing genuine charity and love, proclaiming that Christians must "give beyond their ability" (Page 70), he makes me want to give beyond my own ability. He is so articulate, so convincing, that he could stir up the embers of even the most cynical heart.