The Colonial & Early

National Period (1607 - 1830)

influences
Before anyone in Europe even knew of America's existence, the land was
inhabited by Native Americans who created their own myths about the
beginnings of life, nature, humans and animals, and passed them down orally
from generation to generation. These myths are seen by many as the
beginning of American literature.

Colonial American literature emerged from the original U.S. colonies who
came to America in the early 1600s. Some groups, the pilgrims and puritans
colonised for religious reasons while others had hopes to gain financial
prosperity in the new world. The intellectual movement of the Enlightenment
emerged in the late 1600's and brought with it new ways of thinking and new
ideas about government. By the American Revolution, writers had ventured
beyond the puritan literary style with its religious themes and developed styles
of writing that grew from distinctly American experiences. A series of political
texts united America as a nation seeking to form a distinct government
seperate from English influences.

definition
Colonial literature mostly consisted of practical and straightforward non-fiction texts
written by the first European settlers that were historical or religious in nature. These
were largely influenced by British writers. Many focused on religion, politics or the
future of America. During the Revolutionary period, the literature reflected a new
fascination with science, nature and freedom. By the start of the 1800's a truly American
literature began to emerge which depicted American society and the American landscape
in a new and distinctive way.

themes & characteristics

During the colonial era, much of the writing had a practical
purpose, as leaders carefully recorded everything that occurred,
seeking to educate readers or inspire action. Although the narrative
form was used extensively during this period, other text types
included poems, journals, letters, biographies, memoirs and
historical writing.

Religion was a prominent theme found mostly in Puritan writings.

Many texts reflected the idea that ambition and hard work were
essential to happiness. Other common themes of colonial American
literature, particularly after the Revolutionary period included Sources:
Luebering, J. E. “Periods of American Literature.” Encyclopedia

politics, community, unity, liberty, and equality. Britannica, www.britannica.com/list/periods-of-american-literature.

Lorcher, Trenton, and Trenton Lorcher. “American Literature:
Colonial Period, 1607-1783 | ELA Common Core Lesson Plans.” ELA
Common Core Lesson Plans, Dec. 2016,
www.elacommoncorelessonplans.com/american-literature-colonial-
period-1607-1783.html.