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The Separatists In William Bradford's Of Plymouth Plantation

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In Of Plymouth Plantation, William Bradford records the journey of the Separatists as they cross the Atlantic Ocean and begin life in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Bradford discloses the reasons for leaving at the beginning of this book. This disclosure sets the stage for what is to come and gives the reader insight into the mind of not only Bradford but also the rest of the Separatist community. By pairing this insight with historical context as well as literary and cultural context, the reader is able to grasp what is presented in the text. As a well-respected man, Bradford is expected to record only true events. While all the events described in the text may be true, Bradford still has a hand in deciding which events to include and which events to leave out. Bradford includes events that are aimed to show how devoted the Separatists are and to further advance the faith of all of those that read the text. By looking at the first chapter, the reader is fully aware that Bradford is a man of faith. In this first chapter, Bradford recognizes Separatist leaders Mr. Richard Clyfton, Mr. John Robinson, and Mr. William Brewster as “worthy men” …show more content…

Bradford does not blame God for the struggles that the group faces nor do the others. Being the honest man Bradford is, Bradford does not leave out the ugly parts of the past. Bradford accurately records these parts to help people understand the heartache the group actually faced. The starving time is one of the most devastating periods for the colony. Half of the pilgrims die. This type of truth is the type of truth that has to be disclosed to the audience. This truth allows the reader to see the hope in the Separatists even when disaster strikes. Instead of asking God why, the Separatists accept their fate and ask God to be with them in this time of need. Rather than turning away from God, the Separatists continue to turn towards

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