Puritanism profoundly shaped early American literature, serving as its dominant cultural and religious force. Writings primarily focused on religious themes of divine providence, sin, and salvation, aiming to instruct, inspire piety, and glorify God. Authors used forms like sermons, diaries, and devotional poetry for self-examination and moral reflection. This influence fostered a plain, direct literary style and a serious, didactic tone. Puritanism thus established a literary tradition deeply rooted in spiritual introspection and moral instruction, significantly impacting subsequent American thought and expression. That's 2 down. 3 left today — send the next one.