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Cover of Customs and Fashions in Old New England

Customs and Fashions in Old New England

Written by Alice Morse Earle

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New England

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About this book

"Customs and Fashions in Old New England" by Alice Morse Earle is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the daily life, customs, and practices of early New England settlers, delving into aspects from childbirth to courtship, and providing insights into their social structures and traditions. It aims to illuminate the challenges and norms faced by Puritan families in their distinct cultural setting. At the start of the book, Earle discusses the harsh realities of life for Puritan infants and their families during the colonial period. She details the physical hardships that babies endured, such as exposure to cold and the grim process of baptism, and notices the high infant mortality rates. The narrative also touches on the roles of midwives and the traditional practices surrounding childbirth, as exemplified through references to historical figures like Judge Samuel Sewall, whose diaries offer a glimpse into the family dynamics and societal norms of the time. The opening sets a somber tone, highlighting the survival instincts necessitated by the harsh New England environment while providing rich historical context to the customs of the era.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Customs and Fashions in Old New England, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • somber
  • descriptive

Alice Morse Earle's "Customs and Fashions in Old New England" offers a meticulously researched glimpse into the daily lives of colonial Puritan settlers, spanning from the harsh realities of infancy and childhood to courtship, domestic routines, and social structures. Drawing heavily on primary sources like diaries and town records, the book reconstructs the distinct cultural setting and formidable challenges faced by early New England families. Earle illuminates the practicalities and spiritual underpinnings of Puritan existence, detailing everything from severe infant mortality rates and baptismal rites to the roles of midwives and the strictures of community life. It serves as a vivid historical tapestry, showcasing the resilience and unique traditions forged in a challenging new world.

“The New England baby was born into a world of hardship, and his first breath was often drawn in an atmosphere of chill and dread.”

Key themes

Survival and Resilience
This theme explores the relentless physical and environmental challenges faced by early New England settlers, from harsh winters and disease to food scarcity and high mortality rates, especially among infants. Earle details the daily struggles and the sheer tenacity required to not only endure but to establish a lasting society in a new world.
Religious Devotion and Stricture
Earle consistently shows how Puritan religious beliefs permeated every aspect of life, from moral codes and social customs to personal introspection and the interpretation of suffering. This theme explores the profound influence of Calvinist theology on individual behavior, family structure, community governance, and attitudes towards life events like birth, marriage, and death.
Domesticity and Gender Roles
This theme delves into the distinct roles and responsibilities assigned to men and women within the Puritan household and community. Earle details the arduous daily tasks of women in maintaining the home, raising children, and contributing to the household economy, contrasting them with the public and agricultural roles of men. It highlights the interdependence of these roles and the strict societal expectations placed upon each gender.

Worth discussing

How did the harsh environment of New England shape Puritan customs and beliefs?

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