The Faith that Sustains Mary Rowlandson.
Mary Rowlandson's narrative expresses her feelings as a frightened young woman whom had been taken captive by Indians. She knows exactly who to turn to during this horrific act to provide her with protection, comfort, and strength. Even though Mary Rowlandson's tragic experience brings her many hardships, she is able to overcome it all through her Puritan beliefs. She continues to practice her beliefs throughout this terrifying incident and believes in God for her restoration.
Some of the basic concepts of Puritan thought and culture exist within her narrative. Puritans think writing is a tool that should be used to glorify God. The purpose of her narrative is obviously to glorify God. In Rowlandson's narrative, she honors God above all. Some of the Indians try to discourage her faith, but she proceeds to depend on God's word before all others to carry her out of this misery.
Puritans believe they are the chosen people of God. Therefore, God protects them. She illustrates the faith she has in the protection of God by calling upon scriptures from the Bible. During the time the Indians travel, she is made to cross a river. Without being familiar with the dangers she is facing, she quotes, "When thou passeth through the waters I will be with thee, and through the Rivers they shall not overflow thee, Isaiah 43.2" (123). By relying on the word of God to protect her, she crosses the river unharmed. In another time of need, she quotes, "Psalm 94.18, When my foot slipped, thy mercy, O Lord, held me up" (130). .
Rowlandson's physical strength is not able to carry her any longer. She calls out to God for strength and protection while crossing a large swamp. She indicates the use of her Puritan beliefs by depending on the word of God to keep her safe.
Rowlandson's Puritan beliefs teach her not only to look to God for protection, but also for comfort.