Core Beliefs:
* Age of Reason: Writers during this period emphasized reason, logic, and empirical evidence over faith and tradition. They believed in human progress and the power of knowledge to solve problems and improve society. They often championed individualism, tolerance, and freedom of thought.
* Puritans: Puritan writers were deeply religious and believed in the absolute authority of the Bible. They emphasized God's sovereignty, predestination, and the need for personal salvation. They viewed life as a journey towards spiritual perfection and saw human nature as inherently flawed.
Writing Style:
* Age of Reason: Enlightenment writers used clear, concise, and persuasive prose to argue for their ideas. They valued logic and structure, often employing rhetorical devices to make their points. Their writing was typically analytical and objective, seeking to present evidence and arguments rationally.
* Puritans: Puritan writers often used eloquent and highly metaphorical language to express their deeply felt religious experiences. Their works frequently employed biblical imagery and allusions to convey their theological beliefs. They valued emotional intensity and personal introspection, seeking to connect with the reader's spiritual understanding.
Subject Matter:
* Age of Reason: Enlightenment writers focused on politics, philosophy, science, and social issues. They aimed to use reason to improve society, questioning traditional authority and advocating for individual rights. They explored topics such as natural law, government, and the pursuit of happiness.
* Puritans: Puritan writers primarily focused on religious topics and personal spirituality. They explored themes of sin, redemption, and the search for God's grace. Their works often depicted the trials and tribulations of a life lived in pursuit of faith and the challenges of maintaining virtue in a fallen world.
Key Examples:
* Age of Reason: John Locke, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
* Puritans: John Winthrop, Jonathan Edwards, Anne Bradstreet, Cotton Mather.
In conclusion:
While both Age of Reason and Puritan writers sought to understand and improve the human condition, they differed significantly in their approaches. The Age of Reason emphasized logic and reason, while Puritanism prioritized faith and spiritual experience. These differences are reflected in their writing styles and the topics they addressed.