Classic and Contemporary Poets

Michael Wigglesworth (1631–1705) was a Puritan poet and minister in colonial America, best known for his poem "The Day of Doom." His work is representative of the Puritan religious ethos of his time, characterized by a strong emphasis on moral teachings, the omnipotence of God, and the doctrine of predestination.

Literary Background and Influences

Born in England, Wigglesworth emigrated to the Massachusetts Bay Colony with his family as a child. He graduated from Harvard College and became a minister, deeply influenced by Puritan theology and the religious climate of early New England. His work reflects the Puritan concern with sin, salvation, and the afterlife.

Association with Literary Movements

Wigglesworth's work is aligned with the Puritan literary tradition, a movement characterized by a plain style of writing and a focus on religious themes. Puritan literature often aimed to edify and instruct the reader in matters of faith and morality.

Literary Oeuvre

Michael Wigglesworth's most famous work, "The Day of Doom" (1662), is a long narrative poem describing the Last Judgment. It was one of the first bestsellers in colonial America and is representative of the Puritan style of didactic poetry. The poem is known for its vivid descriptions of the fate awaiting sinners and the saved, reflecting the Puritan focus on salvation and judgment.

Themes

*Religious Doctrine and Theology: Wigglesworth's poetry is imbued with Puritan theology, focusing on themes such as sin, redemption, and the divine judgment.

*Morality and Didacticism: His work often had a didactic purpose, aiming to teach moral lessons and instill a fear of God’s judgment.

*Apocalyptic and Eschatological Imagery: "The Day of Doom" is notable for its vivid, often graphic, depictions of the Last Judgment and the apocalyptic themes consistent with Puritan eschatology.

*Human Sinfulness and Divine Justice: A recurring theme in his work is the innate sinfulness of humanity and the inevitability of divine justice, reflecting the Puritan belief in the depravity of man and the sovereignty of God.

Legacy

Michael Wigglesworth's legacy lies in his role as a prominent Puritan poet whose work provides insight into the religious and cultural mindset of early colonial America. "The Day of Doom" remains an important work for understanding Puritan theology and the literary history of the period.

Conclusion

Michael Wigglesworth's contributions to American literature are significant for their reflection of Puritan religious beliefs and their influence in early American society. His work, particularly "The Day of Doom," is a key example of the Puritan literary tradition, characterized by its didacticism, religious fervor, and the portrayal of stark moral themes.

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