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PURITAN GIRLS DANCING
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PURITAN GIRLS DANCING
Puritan girls caught dancing Date: circa 1650
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Media ID 20146435
© Bubblepunk
1650 Caught Concepts Morals Puritan
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image, titled "Puritan Girls Dancing," is a rare and intriguing glimpse into the past, depicting a group of young Puritan girls engaged in an unsanctioned moment of joy and merriment, circa 1650. The Puritans were a religious reformist movement that emerged in England during the 16th and 17th centuries, known for their strict adherence to biblical principles and rejection of the established Church of England. The concept of dancing was a subject of much debate within Puritan communities, as it was seen by some as a frivolous and even sinful activity. The Moral Reformer, William Perkins, wrote in his 1579 book, "A Treatise of the Vanyte and Idleness of Women," that "dancing is a thing indifferent in it self, but is made sinful by the wicked thoughts and actions that accompany it." Despite this, it is believed that dancing was still practiced in private homes and secretly among young people, away from the prying eyes of the authorities. This image captures the essence of that hidden world, with the girls dressed in their simple, practical clothing, their faces expressing a mix of mischief and delight. The scene is further enlivened by the inclusion of musical instruments, such as the lute and the recorder, which would have added to the festive atmosphere. The image is a poignant reminder of the complexities of life in Puritan society, where strict moral codes coexisted with the human desire for joy and companionship. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical records, as this image provides us with a unique window into the past, allowing us to appreciate the lives and experiences of our ancestors in a new and fascinating way.
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