Early American Literature: Roger Williams and Anne Bradstreet

Vocabulary flashcards covering the literary themes, specific lines, and historical contexts of Roger Williams's and Anne Bradstreet's poetry.

"Boast Not Proud English"

A poem by Roger Williams reminding English readers not to be prideful because of nationality, emphasizing that Native Americans are equal since all people are created from one blood in the image of God.

"Thy Brother"

A title Roger Williams uses in 'Boast Not Proud English' to address the Native American, compelling English readers to acknowledge universal human unity under God rather than treating them as strangers.

"His Soul and Thine"

A phrase from 'Boast Not Proud English' indicating that both Native Americans and English settlers need God's spiritual restoration and salvation, undermining English claims of spiritual superiority.

Second Birth

A theological concept defined in the notes as spiritual rebirth in Christ.

"The Courteous Pagan"

A poem by Roger Williams contrasting the polite, hospitable conduct of Native Americans with the cruel actions of English settlers to challenge 17th-century English beliefs in moral and spiritual superiority.

"Bears and Wolves"

Metaphorical descriptions applied by Roger Williams to English settlers to expose how their conduct is driven by greed, predation, and violent aggression rather than Christian restraint or morality.

"How Ill Become It Sons of God / To Want Humanity?"

A line from 'The Courteous Pagan' emphasizing the hypocritical contradiction between identifying as a child of God while lacking basic human kindness and fairness.

"They See God's Wonders"

A poem by Roger Williams describing the perils of violent storms on a European ship and dangers in an indigenous canoe, illustrating human equality through God's impartial protection of all lives in both vessels.

"The Author to Her Book"

A poem in which Anne Bradstreet personifies her writing as her child, expressing maternal affection, protective anxiety about critics, and a sense of responsibility despite embarrassment over its flaws.

"Contemplations"

A poem by Anne Bradstreet in which observing the beauty of nature prompts reflection on God's divine glory, power, and goodness revealed through His creation.

The Tenth Muse

The title under which Anne Bradstreet's collection of poetry was published in London in 1650 without her prior knowledge.

Needle vs. Pen

A contemporary 17th-century criticism leveled against Anne Bradstreet, asserting that a woman should focus on sewing rather than writing poetry.

Puritan Purpose of Writing

The literary belief reflected in Bradstreet's work stating that writing should declare truth and honor the glory of God rather than seek self-fame or showcase personal skill.

Phoebus

A classical Greek mythological allusion used by Anne Bradstreet to represent the sunset, creating an unexpected blend of pagan mythology within devout Puritan verse.