Anne Bradstreet: the feminine side of Colonial America

Between Old England and New England, in the midst of her domestic duties, Anne Bradstreet succeeds against the rudimentary conditions of colonial life at writing the verse that marks the beginning of American Poetry. Her strong puritan education together with her European past conform the background of her life and writing. Her lyric varies from everyday issues into deep spiritual meditations.“To my dear and loving husband” is her most famous poem, quoted in wedding ceremonies. Read this poem and note how Bradstreet presents the issue of love. What does she say to her husband? What does she say to women? Be ready to share your observations in class this Friday.