logo
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary

The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop

Edmund S. Morgan
Guide cover placeholder
Plot Summary

The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1958

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop by Edmund S. Morgan chronicles the life of John Winthrop, a key figure in the establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, detailing his journey from privileged beginnings in England, his role in founding a new colony in New England, his struggles to balance religious piety with authority, and conflicts with figures like Thomas Dudley, Roger Williams, and Anne Hutchinson.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop by Edmund S. Morgan is praised for its engaging narrative and insightful exploration of Puritanism and early American history. Critics applaud Morgan for his detailed research and balanced portrayal of John Winthrop. Some note the book's academic tone may challenge casual readers. Overall, it's a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop?

Readers who relish The Puritan Dilemma: The Story of John Winthrop by Edmund S. Morgan are typically history enthusiasts fascinated by early American history, particularly the Puritan era. They likely enjoyed titles like Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick and Ordinary Courage by James Kirby Martin. Ideal for those intrigued by moral and societal struggles.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Plot Summary?
We’re just getting started.

Add this title to our requested Study Guides list!

Plot Summary?
We’re just getting started.

Add this title to our requested Study Guides list!


A SuperSummary Plot Summary provides a quick, full synopsis of a text.

A SuperSummary Study Guide — a modern alternative to Sparknotes & CliffsNotes — provides so much more, including chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and important quotes.

See the difference for yourself. Check out this sample Study Guide: