Views of Hell Puritans vs In

             In the story " The History of the Dividing Line," the character Bearskin presents a view of Hell that contradicts the views of Edward's in "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." Bearskin's perception of Hell is a cold, barren place that, although completely undesirable, can be avoided and even escaped from. But in Edward's eyes, Hell is a pit of molten brimstone that is un-escapable and almost everyone is certain to dwell there for eternity.
             The version of Hell in "The History of the Dividing Line" can be perceived as the more hopeful of the two stories. In the Indian's story, Hell is a dreadful place, yet can be avoided by one who believes and trusts in God. He describes God, " that God is very just and very good, ever well pleased with those men who possess god-like qualities" (53). Bearskin shows that if Gods' wills are not taken lightly, and if people act as he wants, then they will be taken care of and given eternal peace and joy. But if one defies God and does not obey his word, they will be forsaken by Him. If someone does not obey the will of God, they will be taken to Hell, where " All such as tell lies and cheat those that have dwellings with he never fails to punish with sickness, poverty, hunger, and a place in Hell" (53). Although Bearskin describes Hell as a horrible place to live, one still contains the power to be redeemed from it once there, or even avoid it altogether.
             In contrast, the vision of Hell in " Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," is absolutely horrifying. Edwards creates a disturbing image of Hell, describing it as "...that lake of burning brimstone, is extended abroad under you. There is a dreadful pit of of the glowing flames of the wrath of God..." (80) This portrayal of Hell differs from Bearskin's in that Bearskin's is eterna
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