The Puritans were a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to purify the Church of England of its perceived Catholic practices. They were known for their strict adherence to Calvinist theology, which emphasized the sovereignty of God, the depravity of human nature, and the need for individuals to be saved through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Puritan worldview was shaped by their belief in predestination, the idea that God has predetermined who will be saved and who will not, regardless of an individual's actions or beliefs. This belief had a profound impact on the way the Puritans understood themselves and their place in the world. They saw themselves as being in a constant state of struggle, striving to live a godly life and to be among the elect, those chosen by God for salvation.
Puritan society was highly structured and hierarchical, with strict rules and codes of conduct that governed every aspect of daily life. The Puritans believed that they were living in a fallen world, and that it was their duty to create a godly society in which they could live in accordance with God's will. They were known for their strong work ethic, as they saw labor as a means of glorifying God and serving their community.
Puritans were also deeply religious and believed in the importance of personal piety. They placed a great emphasis on the Bible, and reading and interpreting it was a central part of their daily lives. They believed that every individual was responsible for their own spiritual growth and salvation, and that it was their duty to live a life that was pleasing to God.
Despite their strict adherence to their beliefs, the Puritans were also a deeply compassionate and caring people. They believed in the importance of helping others, and many Puritan communities were known for their charitable works. They were also deeply committed to education, and believed that knowledge was essential for leading a godly life.
In conclusion, the Puritan nature was one of strict adherence to their beliefs, hard work, and a strong sense of community and compassion. They saw themselves as being in a constant state of struggle to live a godly life and to be among the elect, and their society was highly structured and hierarchical. However, they were also deeply caring and committed to helping others and to the pursuit of knowledge.