The Puritans   By: Arlo Bates (1850-1918)

The Puritans by Arlo Bates is a captivating historical novel set in the early colonial period of America. With meticulous attention to detail, Bates transports readers to a time when religious fervor and harsh societal norms shaped the lives of the Puritans.

The narrative follows the lives of several key characters, providing a rich tapestry of their struggles, aspirations, and relationships. The complex character development adds depth to the story, allowing readers to understand the motivations and inner conflicts of each individual. Bates masterfully explores themes of faith, moral dilemmas, and the clash between personal desires and societal expectations.

What sets this book apart is the author's remarkable ability to transport readers to another era. One can almost feel the chilling winds of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and visualize the austere Puritan settlements vividly described throughout the novel. Bates presents a comprehensive portrait of the Puritan lifestyle, shedding light on their religious practices, superstitions, and the impact of the Salem witch trials on their community.

The storytelling is skillful, with a slow and deliberate pace that mirrors the conservative nature of the Puritans themselves. While some readers may find the pacing challenging, it ultimately adds to the authenticity and immersion in the historical setting. Bates' prose is elegant and evocative, laden with descriptive language that brings the characters and their surroundings to life.

Moreover, The Puritans offers thought-provoking reflections on human nature and the consequences of unchecked moral judgment. The exploration of religious hypocrisy, prejudice, and the power dynamics within the Puritan society prompts readers to question our own contemporary societies and the dangers of strict conformity.

However, the novel does have its flaws. The abundance of historical details, while impressive, can at times overwhelm the narrative and slow down the plot. Additionally, the author occasionally indulges in lengthy philosophical musings that may detract from the overall flow of the story.

In conclusion, The Puritans is a meticulously researched and beautifully written historical novel that immerses readers in the world of the early American colonists. Arlo Bates expertly captures the essence of the Puritans, shedding light on their complex lives, religious fervor, and societal struggles. Despite a few pacing issues and occasional digressions, this book is a compelling exploration of human nature, religious dogma, and the limits of morality.

First Page:

I. AFTER SUCH A PAGAN CUT II. THERE BEGINS CONFUSION III. AS FALSE AS STAIRS OF SAND IV. SOME SPEECH OF MARRIAGE V. VOLUBLE AND SHARP DISCOURSE VI. HEART BURNING HEAT OF DUTY VII. THE SHOT OF ACCIDENT VIII. LIKE COVERED FIRE IX. HIS PURE HEART'S TRUTH X. A SYMPATHY OF WOE XI. IN PLACE AND IN ACCOUNT NOTHING XII. THE INLY TOUCH OF LOVE XIII. A NECESSARY EVIL XIV. HE SPEAKS THE MERE CONTRARY XV. HEARTSICK WITH THOUGHT XVI. THE GREAT ASSAY OF ART XVII. A BOND OF AIR XVIII. CRUEL PROOF OF THIS MAN'S STRENGTH XIX. 'TWAS WONDROUS PITIFUL XX. IN WAY OF TASTE XXI. THIS "WOULD" CHANGES XXII. THE BITTER PAST XXIII. THIS DEED UNSHAPES ME XXIV. FAREWELL AT ONCE, FOR ONCE, FOR ALL, AND EVER XXV. WHOM THE FATES HAVE MARKED XXVI. O WICKED WIT AND GIFT XXVII... Continue reading book >>