Mather Enlightenment Thinking on Calvinists Values and His Christian Belief.

In "The Triumph of the Reformed Religion in America," Cotton Mather articulates a complex interplay between his Puritan roots and emerging Enlightenment thought. The essay centers on John Eliot, a minister who endeavors to save Native Americans through the acquisition of their language (Mather 63). This linguistic effort allows Eliot to impart his religious beliefs to them. While Mather's Christian views are ostensibly grounded in Calvinist principles, his Enlightenment perspective appears to reshape his understanding of Christianity. He crafts an almost idealistic narrative about Eliot, portraying him as a figure of near-divinity amidst a world perceived as depraved. This synthesis of religious conviction and Enlightenment reasoning produces a hybrid belief system that marries the Calvinist emphasis on good deeds with the Enlightenment's focus on free will.

Calvinist Perspectives on the Natives

Mather’s portrayal of the Native Americans adopts a distinctly Calvinist viewpoint, emphasizing their moral deficiencies and the stark contrasts between their culture and his own. He underscores their sinful nature, characterizing them as closer to beasts than to humans by stating that “their clothing is but skin of a beast” (60). Mather’s comparisons, such as likening their paddling to that of a dog (62), further dehumanize the natives, implying that they lack the awareness of their depravity. This depiction serves to reinforce the notion that they are so entrenched in original sin that they require Eliot's guidance to grasp their sinful state.

Additionally, Mather critiques the laziness he perceives among the natives, which contradicts the Puritan work ethic. He describes their polytheistic beliefs, which are intimately tied to nature, and identifies their worship of various deities, including Sun and Moon Gods (61-62). This connection to nature contrasts sharply with the Puritan ideal of community life in urban settings. Mather further illustrates their alienation from God by mentioning their reliance on demons for assistance (62).

Enlightenment Thinking and Understanding

Despite his critical view of the natives, Mather's Enlightenment thinking drives him to seek a deeper understanding of their culture. He reflects on how the division of labor between genders might influence women's experiences during childbirth (61). Moreover, Mather notes the abundance of natural resources—copper, iron, and timber—that the natives fail to utilize effectively (60-61). This exploration indicates his desire to comprehend the reasons behind their lack of progress, hinting that their ignorance may stem from their disconnection from God.

Mather’s extensive descriptions of the technological and cultural advancements of his own people imply a sense of superiority, challenging Calvinist humility. He points out that the natives lack metal weapons, utilize trinkets as currency, and are unfamiliar with ships until European contact (60-61). His assertion that “They live in a country where we now have all the conveniences of human life” (60) further emphasizes their perceived inferiority.

Eliot: A New Kind of Calvinist

Mather's portrayal of Eliot diverges from traditional Calvinist depictions. Eliot is depicted as a near-messianic figure, embodying human perfectibility rather than inherent depravity. Mather emphasizes Eliot's virtues, describing him as honorable, humble, and charitable (79-60). Even in his old age, Eliot's grace is said to have increased, demonstrating a commitment to hard work despite nearing death (65). Mather’s descriptions of Eliot as a “perfect and upright man” (65) undermine the Calvinist notion of original sin, suggesting an evolution in Mather’s thought.

Furthermore, Mather implies that Eliot’s choice to assist the natives stems from his own volition rather than divine mandate, stating, “This was the miserable people which our Eliot propounded unto himself to teach and save!” (62). This sentiment reflects a shift towards the Enlightenment concept of free will. While Eliot’s humility aligns with Calvinist ideals, his perception of the natives as lacking intelligence, coupled with his desire to educate them, mirrors the Enlightenment’s pursuit of knowledge.

Civilizing the Natives: A Dual Approach

Eliot’s mission extends beyond mere language acquisition; he believes that civilizing the natives is a prerequisite for their conversion (62). This belief intertwines Calvinist introspection with Enlightenment principles, as self-awareness and knowledge are deemed essential for spiritual enlightenment. Mather suggests that understanding oneself is crucial to knowing God, thus blending the two ideological frameworks.

Conclusion

Throughout his essay, Mather maintains a critical yet analytical perspective on the differences between the natives and his own people, illustrating both Puritan and Enlightenment thought. While he critiques the values of the natives, his reasoning allows for a non-judgmental examination of their culture. Mather contrasts the natives, who embody negative traits of sinfulness and ignorance, with Eliot, who exemplifies the positive attributes of knowledge and virtue. Ultimately, Eliot serves as a bridge between Puritanism and Enlightenment ideals, showcasing the potential for human improvement and understanding.

Works Cited

Mather, Cotton. “The Triumphs of the Reformed Religion in America: Or, The Life of the Renowned John Eliot.” The Pearson Custom Library of American Literature, Eds. John Bryan, et al. Boston: Pearson Custom Publishing, 2007. 58-66.