Review by Karen Ackermann
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We may recognize his name, especially in reference to his inspiring (and aspiring) "city on a hill" desire for the Massachusetts Bay Colony, but what about the full meaning of the sermon, its historical context, and John Winthrop (1588-1649) himself? Most writers focus on Winthrop's life beginning with his arrival in America. Bremer, however, delves deeper in search of an increased understanding of Winthrop's self-fashioning as an Englishman and a Puritan, and of the broader forces that confronted him. Bremer begins his study by following the lives of Winthrop's grandfather, father, and uncles. We learn of the family's heritage and also gain an understanding of the roles played by the economic, social, and religious transformations occurring in early modern England in the shaping of that heritage. Next, Bremer investigates Winthrop's youth, education, rise to a responsible position in the government, domestic life (he would marry four times and have eight children), religious struggles, and reasons for emigrating. Lastly, the author examines Winthrop's role in the founding and shaping of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, including his defense against religious dissenters such as Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson, and against English interference. Though he lived long ago, Winthrop shaped a New England culture that has had a lasting effect on American values. Bremer's path-breaking treatment sheds new light on this important man and shows us John Winthrop's personal side as no other author has done. |
