Historical and Cultural Connections

The writings of Colonial America reflect the events and mindsets of this time. The Puritans emphasized God rather than the person and embellishments; therefore, Puritans commonly used Christian allusions and imagery. Since they pursued a personal relationship with God, their writings often contained instances of personal reflection. Colonial writing and speech also took on a persuasive purpose and tone, especially seen in documents and speeches meant to build support for a revolution against the British crown. As you learned, various persuasive techniques were used.

Now, step outside your modern world and into the world of the Colonial Americans. Pretend that you are a Puritan who has just reached the New World. Write a short diary entry that recounts something about your life as a Puritan. Your diary entry should be at least two paragraphs long written in a style appropriate to your chosen character. Refer to the lessons and readings in the Content of this Topic to help you adopt the Puritan or revolutionary style. You may write about the happenings of your day, your feelings or beliefs, or your hopes and dreams. In doing so, try to be as authentic as you can with the information you provide. For instance, you should not talk about riding to town on a train during this time period. You also want to write in a tone that is personal in order to allow your reader, your audience, to connect with what should seem like an authentic diary entry written by your chosen character. Be creative and have fun. Feel free to name your character, too!

Before writing your diary entry, review the Colonial Diary Entry Rubric to make sure you understand how your work will be graded.

Once you have completed your diary entry, please submit it to the dropbox.