Diary of Cotton Mather 1681-1709 volume 1

by Cotton Mather, Worthington Chauncey Ford (Foreword)

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

Genres: Diary

632 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1709

About the author

Cotton Mather A.B. 1678 (Harvard College), A.M. 1681; honorary doctorate 1710 (University of Glasgow), was a socially and politically influential New England Puritan minister, prolific author, and pamphleteer. Cotton Mather was the son of influential minister Increase Mather. He is often remembered for his connection to the Salem witch trials.

Mather was named after his grandfathers, both paternal (Richard Mather) and maternal (John Cotton). He attended Boston Latin School, and graduated from Harvard in 1678, at only 16 years of age. After completing his post-graduate work, he joined his father as assistant Pastor of Boston's original North Church (not to be confused with the Anglican/Episcopal Old North Church). It was not until his father's death, in 1723, that Mather assumed full responsibilities as Pastor at the Church.

Author of more than 450 books and pamphlets, Cotton Mather's ubiquitous literary works made him one of the most influential religious leaders in America. Mather set the nation's "moral tone," and sounded the call for second and third generation Puritans, whose parents had left England for the New England colonies of North America to return to the theological roots of Puritanism.

Reviews

[David M Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mather was misunderstood as a villain of church history, when in reality, he was a great example in prayer, fasting and spiritual disciplines. He also had a brilliant and innovative mind. He had a little bit of besetting pride that was seen in his diary.

[Doris Raines · Rating 3 out of 5]

I LIKE THIS BOOK.

[Melly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this far more than I expected too, though it took longer than expected due to an illness. Mr. Mather can turn a beautiful phrase when he has a mind too. I did expect more notes on events, this is far more of a religious and spiritual journey than a diary.