Similarities:
* Focus on the New World: Both exploration literature and Puritan literature were heavily influenced by the colonization of the Americas. Explorers wrote about their journeys and discoveries, while Puritan writers reflected on their experiences building a new society in a new land.
* Religious Themes: Puritan literature was deeply rooted in religious belief, and many explorers also held strong religious convictions. They often saw their voyages as a way to spread Christianity or fulfill a divine purpose.
* Historical Value: Both genres provide valuable insights into the historical period in which they were written. They offer glimpses into the lives, beliefs, and motivations of those who shaped early America.
Differences:
* Purpose: Exploration literature primarily aimed to document and describe the newly discovered lands, their inhabitants, and the experiences of the explorers. Puritan literature, however, focused on spiritual themes, personal reflection, and the moral challenges of establishing a godly society.
* Audience: Exploration literature was often intended for a broader audience, including potential investors and the curious public. Puritan literature primarily targeted fellow Puritans and served to reinforce their religious values and beliefs.
* Style: Exploration accounts tended towards a more factual and descriptive style, often using detailed accounts of geography, flora, fauna, and encounters with indigenous people. Puritan literature, on the other hand, employed a more introspective and reflective style, often incorporating Biblical references and theological arguments.
Examples:
* Exploration Literature:
* "The General History of Virginia" by Captain John Smith: A detailed account of the early settlement of Jamestown and the encounters with the Powhatan people.
* "The Journal of Christopher Columbus": A record of Columbus's voyages to the Americas, describing his observations and interactions with the indigenous populations.
* Puritan Literature:
* "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne: A fictional work exploring themes of sin, guilt, and redemption within a Puritan community.
* "The Mayflower Compact": A foundational document of self-governance and religious freedom written by the Pilgrims.
* "The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America" by Anne Bradstreet: A collection of poems reflecting on religious faith, family life, and personal experiences.
In conclusion, while both Exploration Literature and Puritan Literature shared a connection to the New World, they served different purposes and employed distinct stylistic approaches. Exploration literature focused on factual accounts of discovery and exploration, while Puritan literature delved into spiritual and moral reflections. Both genres offer valuable insights into the formative years of America.