Mary Rowlandson's Life

Life was not a simple walk in the park for the early colonists. Establishing a functional system of government was nearly impossible due to a new environment and climate, the attacks of native people, and a completely new way of life contrasting to that of their predecessors. Despite this, the colonists kept driving forward in their effort to survive, and made sure to recognize God’s providential care in every action. Mary Rowlandson’s writings show the terrible experiences that she endures whilst living as a captive of the indians. Upon arrival to Lancaster, the indians indiscriminately shoot and kill any white man in sight. They set fire to all homes and barns in the village. Despite the many casualties Rowlandson witnesses, she does not …show more content…
The indians threaten the life of Mary’s child on a daily basis. Eventually, her child passes away from malnutrition, dehydration, and exposure to the cold. The indians take the deceased baby away from her. Mary still thanks God for His wonderful goodness and for preserving her senses so she would not end her own life. She also is grateful to the indians for burying her child in nature and for letting her visit the grave. Even though Mary Rowlandson had experienced and endured many tribulations during her life as a colonist, she was always devout to the Lord and remained optimistic through recognition of His divine …show more content…
As he formulates maps, marks land points, discovers the safe harbors, and finds the ‘savages’ habitations, he illustrates how it is not a work for everyone to discover and plant a colony. He explains that in order to do so one must have good judgement, courage, honesty, constancy, and diligence. John Smith goes on to say how who can please God any more than one who builds the foundation for his descendants by God’s blessing. He also speaks of what act could be more agreeable than that of converting the ‘savages’ to