Why did mary rowlandson write her narrative

Some scholars have speculated that Joseph Rowlandson and Mather were also extensively involved in the production of the Narrative itself; the frequency and aptness of biblical quotations in the text might indicate the hand of an experienced cleric. After providing students with this background information, ask for their opinions on whether or not or to what extent Rowlandson was mediated and guided by Puritan authorities when composing this text.

Ask them to offer specific textual evidence to back up their speculations. Ask students to analyze her portraits of individual Indians and to trace the evolution of her attitude toward Indians in general. Which Native Americans come in for the most criticism? Which does she view more positively? What might motivate her varying assessments? How does each text portray these Native American female leaders?

Why is she so concerned with recording the specifics of what she ate, how she acquired it, and how she prepared it? What kinds of conflicts arise over food?

Context: How does Rowlandson use typology within her Narrative? What kinds of biblical images does she rely on to make sense of her captivity? How does her use of typology compare with that of other writers in this unit Winthrop or Taylor, for example? Exploration: Many scholars view the captivity narrative as the first American genre and trace its influence in the development of other forms of American autobiographical and fictional writings.

Why do you think the captivity narrative became so popular and influential? Some Natives were described as helping her, if only briefly. Many more opportunities though were taken to criticise of the Natives behaviour.

This is in comparison to the situation after her release as, although still in an unstable condition, all kindness shown to her is greater appreciated by Rowlandson.

It is clear that, as a captor, understanding was not going to be forthcoming from Rowlandson yet this has allowed for a greater observation of the cultural differences and expectations. This has enabled historians to gain a better insight into the Native American tactics during the war.

Potter, T. Eighteenth-Century Studies. Rowlandson, M. Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson. Scarbrough, E. Mary Rowlandson: The Captive Voice. Undergraduate Review. Toulouse, T. American Literature. Pay close attention to Rowlandson's descriptions of Indians, both men and women. How does she view Indians in general, and how does she differentiate between Indian men and women?

How does she view the relations and power balances between the sexes among Native American men and women?

Rowlandson did seem to write in a way that seemed to lighten to suffering in my opinion. Surely the ordeal of being captured must have been terrifying and I find it quite difficult to feel that. I think perhaps it was the style of writing that was quite conservative. Thanks for the comment XD. A great look into one of the cannon readings of Early American Literature. Some of these narritives were hard to read.

Rowlandson wrote such a compelling tale and it was such a great feat for her to distance herself so far from her writing. Great hub! If this book was published today, there is no doubt the story would not have the same impact. Back in it seems many people could relate to Rowlandson and her experience.

Also, the ratio of people interested in a highly religious novel has likely decreased in America since then. In an era dominated by the Puritan beliefs, a story based around those same beliefs resonates strongly.

Log In Search. Skip to content Home.