Michael Wigglesworth's 'The Day of Doom; Or, a Poetical Description of the Great and Last Judgement' is a compelling piece of Puritan literature that vividly depicts the horrors of the Final Judgement. Written in ballad form, the poem utilizes stark imagery and a straightforward rhyme scheme to convey the fear and uncertainty surrounding the end times. Wigglesworth's work is steeped in the theological beliefs of the Puritans, making it a valuable insight into the religious mindset of early America. The book serves as both a cautionary tale and a form of moral instruction for its readers. Wigglesworth's somber tone effectively drives home the consequences of sin and the necessity of repentance. Michael Wigglesworth, a Puritan minister, drew from his own religious convictions and teachings to create 'The Day of Doom.' His background in theology and his desire to instill a sense of fear and humility in his congregation likely influenced his decision to write such a harrowing depiction of Judgement Day. Wigglesworth's commitment to his faith is evident in the sincerity and conviction with which he presents his message in the poem. I recommend 'The Day of Doom' to those interested in early American literature, Puritan theology, and religious poetry. Wigglesworth's work provides valuable insight into the spiritual concerns and literary traditions of his time, making it a worthwhile read for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Michael Wigglesworth (16311705) stands as a significant figure in early American literature, notably for his distinctively stark and fervent Puritanical writings. Born in England, Wigglesworth migrated to the New World with his family as a child, contributing to the emerging cultural and religious ethos of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. He graduated from Harvard College in 1651 and stayed at the institution to serve as a teacher and later a pastor, deeply immersed in the religious community there. Wigglesworth's most acclaimed and unsettling work, 'The Day of Doom; Or, a Poetical Description of the Great and Last Judgement,' published in 1662, is emblematic of the pervasive eschatological concerns of the Puritan populace. This lengthy doggerel poem, cast in ballad meter, vividly recounts the Last Judgment, serving as a sermon meant to inspire fear and moral rectitude in its audience. Its popularity is evidenced by its widespread readership in colonial New England, making it one of the best-selling poems of the era. Wigglesworth's theological focus and foreboding literary style mirror the spirit of the early American Puritan movement, portraying the stark choices between salvation and damnation. His work is often examined for its insights into Puritan theology and the socio-religious life of early American settlers. Though best known for 'The Day of Doom,' Wigglesworth's poetic contributions significantly shaped the early American literary canon, reflecting a society deeply engaged with questions of faith, righteousness, and the afterlife.