Who is Mary Rowlandson? Mary Rowlandson was an English colonist who was captured by Native American warriors during King Philip’s War in 1675. Her harrowing experience and subsequent captivity became the subject of her famous memoir, “The Sovereignty and Goodness of God,” which offers a unique perspective on the conflict and the Native American perspective on the colonists. This article delves into the life of Mary Rowlandson, her captivity, and the impact of her memoir on American literature and history.
Mary Rowlandson was born on February 2, 1643, in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. She was the daughter of Isaac Rowlandson, a prominent minister, and his wife, Elizabeth. Mary grew up in a religious household, which played a significant role in shaping her worldview and her response to her captivity. In 1675, King Philip’s War, a conflict between the Native American tribes and the English colonists, erupted. The war was one of the bloodiest conflicts in New England history, and it had a profound impact on the lives of the colonists, including Mary Rowlandson.
On February 10, 1676, Mary Rowlandson and her family were attacked by Native American warriors while they were on a trading trip. Mary was separated from her family and captured, becoming one of the many colonists taken prisoner during the war. Her captivity lasted for about a year, during which she endured harsh conditions, including forced labor, malnutrition, and the constant threat of violence. Despite her suffering, Mary remained a steadfast Christian throughout her ordeal, which is evident in her memoir.
“The Sovereignty and Goodness of God” was published in 1682, just a few years after Mary’s release. The memoir is a powerful account of her captivity and the spiritual transformation she experienced during her time with the Native Americans. In the book, Mary describes the kindness and hospitality she received from some of her captors, as well as the brutality and violence she witnessed. Her narrative provides a rare glimpse into the lives of Native Americans during this tumultuous period, and it challenges the prevailing stereotypes of the time.
Mary Rowlandson’s memoir had a significant impact on American literature and history. It was one of the first works of its kind to offer a colonist’s perspective on the Native American experience. The book became an instant bestseller and was widely read by both colonists and Native Americans. It also played a role in shaping the national narrative, as it contributed to the development of the American identity and the concept of religious freedom.
In conclusion, Mary Rowlandson was a remarkable woman whose life and work have left an indelible mark on American history. Her memoir, “The Sovereignty and Goodness of God,” offers a unique and powerful perspective on King Philip’s War and the Native American experience. By sharing her story, Mary Rowlandson has helped us to better understand the complexities of this tumultuous period in American history and the lives of those who lived through it.
