Back in September I shared how someone might become familiar with the outlines of the puritan movement's history by studying specific
events (via Wikipedia). Another, equally effective way is by looking at important
people. Here are ten (anti-puritans in italics):
John Field (1545–1588) – the brief Wikipedia entry belies his importance as chief organizer of puritan networks across England during the Elizabethan period
Thomas Cartwright (1535–1603) – divine, writer who locked horns with Whitgift and trumpeted presbyterian ecclesiology
John Whitgift (1530–1604) – Archbishop of Canterbury from 1583 until his death; most aggressive foe of puritanism during the Elizabethan period
William Perkins (1558–1602) – the first great systematic theologian of puritan Calvinist theology; also noted for his preaching and writings (for both learned and popular audiences)
Laurence Chaderton (1536?–1640) – divine, founding father of 'moderate puritanism' whose long life spanned Elizabethan and Stuart eras
William Laud (1573–1645) – Archbishop of Canterbury from 1633 to 1645; staunchly enforced a high Anglicanism in opposition to puritan sentiments; Laud is the main reason many went to New England for relief
Richard Baxter (1615–1691) – Civil War chaplain, pastor and prolific writer
John Owen (1616–1683) – easily the most prominent puritan theologian of the 17th century
Cotton Mather (1663–1728) – important New England minister and writer
Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) – some consider the titan Edwards a 'neo-puritan' because he was part of a later generation of New Englanders, but his life and theology are consistent with the older tradition
Early next week, God willing, I will be posting a brief 'Conventicle Q&A' with Professor Patrick Collinson, Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, who is perhaps the most renowned historian of puritanism alive today. Prof. Collinson was gracious enough to answer some of my questions, when I spoke with him at a recent British Academy conference.
