Those Human Puritans.

The article presents an exploration into the romantic life in Colonial Massachusetts, focusing on the Puritan society of the 17th-century. The author asserts that despite popular depiction as dour and conservative people, there are many historical examples of Puritan young adults misbehaving and exhibiting flirtatious behavior between the sexes. Excerpts from the letters of the Puritan leader John Winthrop to his wife are given. Court records and documents about social behaviors are cited. The sermons of William Pynchon, founder and minister of Springfield are also discussed regarding the importance of happiness in life.