⚡️ What is Patriotism about ?
In his enlightening book, Abram C. Van Engen delves into the intricate history of America’s national narratives, unraveling the captivating tale of a single Puritan sermon and its lasting impact. The phrase “city on a hill,” popularized by Massachusetts Bay governor John Winthrop in his 1630 sermon, sparks a reassessment of American exceptionalism throughout the twentieth century. By meticulously tracing the transformation and significance of Winthrop’s words over time, Van Engen prompts readers to reconsider the stories we tell ourselves as a nation. With a keen focus on the unsung heroes – curators, librarians, collectors – who dedicated themselves to preserving historical artifacts, this book unveils the power of narratives in shaping our understanding of America. Published by Yale University Press, this fascinating exploration weighs in at 392 pages, offering a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis.
📖 Who should read Patriotism?
List of people who should read this book:
1. History enthusiasts: This book delves into the history of America’s national narratives, offering a fresh and original perspective.
2. Individuals interested in American exceptionalism: The book explores the phrase “city on a hill” and its influence on the concept of American exceptionalism.
3. Political enthusiasts: With America transitioning to a new political chapter, this book provides insights on reconnecting with the country’s historical vision.
4. Collectors, archivists, and curators: The book delves into the journey and significance of preserving historical artifacts, highlighting their role in shaping national narratives.
5. Scholars and academics: This book offers a deep dive into the influences and meanings behind America’s literary past.
6. Anyone seeking to understand the shaping of national stories: The book uncovers how narratives evolve and influence competing visions of a country.
7. Readers looking for a fascinating and well-researched exploration of American history.
💡 What will you learn in Patriotism ?
From this book, you can learn:
1. The history of America’s national narratives: The book explores the history of America’s national narratives and how they have been shaped over time.
2. The significance of John Winthrop’s sermon: The book delves into the importance of John Winthrop’s sermon from 1630, titled “A Model of Christian Charity” and commonly referred to as the “city on a hill” speech, in shaping the story of American exceptionalism.
3. The role of anonymous figures in preserving history: The author highlights the contributions of various individuals such as curators, librarians, collectors, and archivists in emphasizing the role of the Pilgrims and Puritans in American history, specifically through the preservation and influence of Winthrop’s sermon.
4. The evolution of national stories: Through the study of the rise of Winthrop’s sermon, the book demonstrates how national stories are constructed, evolve, and influence different interpretations of America’s past.
5. Competing visions of America: The book shows how the different interpretations of America’s literary past, influenced by the telling of Winthrop’s sermon, contribute to the existence of multiple competing visions of the country.
6. The importance of reevaluating national narratives: Overall, the book encourages readers to critically reevaluate the national narratives that shape their understanding of America’s history and their country’s special mission.
In summary, this book provides a historical account of America’s national narratives, focusing on the significance of John Winthrop’s sermon, and examines the way it has shaped the interpretation of the country’s history and contributed to competing visions of America.
