Analysis Of The Day Of Doom By Michael Wigglesworth

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Michael Wigglesworth writes a religious poem, "Day of Doom", also known as "A Poetical Description of the Great and Last Judgment." The poem describes the day of judgement, in which God sentences men to either heaven or hell. Wigglesworth publishes the poem in 1662. The poem is a best-selling classic, especially in Puritan New England. The poem bases around how the weak Puritans are falling into sin and self-satisfaction. It narrates the details of the Second Coming of Christ and the day of judgement. "Day of Doom" creates a mental picture of what it will be like on the day of judgement. The poem harshly describes God 's justice and the horrors awaiting sinners. Wigglesworth 's vivid representation children and infants characterizes the inflexible doctrine of Calvinism. Some believe, the purpose of the poem is to be a reminder to those who are not close to God anymore. There are many different opinions and takes on Wigglesworth 's poem.

"Day of Doom" discusses a theme of perdition. Salvation is preservation from harm, while perdition means eternal punishment. Wigglesworth worries about himself and his sins. He is very religious and wants to be faithful to God. Cassell shows this when she says "His motivation for his private work is to empty himself of pride"(1). Cassell also shows that " Wigglesworth 's public works also encourage men and women to put away their personal pride and to submit themselves to the sovereignty of God"(1). In this poem, Wigglesworth sees