‘This Excellent and Spiritual Traffick’: Producing and Promoting Indian Souls in Seventeenth-Century New England

Description

Explore the complex dynamics of Puritan missionary efforts in seventeenth-century New England through J. Patrick Cesarini's insightful essay. This work delves into the Puritans' transatlantic mission to convert local Native American populations, examining how these efforts were promoted and perceived both in the colonies and in England. Utilizing theoretical models from Mary Louise Pratt and James Scott, Cesarini highlights the cultural exchanges and tensions that arose, showcasing how Puritan writings served as tools for both religious conversion and colonial propaganda. This essay is essential for understanding the intersections of religion, literature, and colonialism in early American history.