Prevalent in early American Literature especially throughout the works of the Puritans and the Transcendentalists, was the common theme of rebellion against the government. The purpose of this literature was not to entertain, but to inform, which set the precedent for the next 200 years. The literature was to be informative, persuasive, but not entertaining, as shown as a recurring theme in: Of Plymouth Plantation, by William Bradford, “Common Sense” and “The Crisis” both authored by …showed first 75 words of 1142 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1142 total…rebellions saying that providing for yourself is the only way to be peaceful. In conclusion, the authors of Puritan, Revolutionary American, and Transcendentalist literature were products of their times. When writing their pieces these authors kept in mind the rebellious interests of their country and audience. The theme of rebellion against the government recurs from William Bradford’s early book supporting the Puritans’ split from the Church of England to the long-winded masterpiece of Emerson.