True Story:True Faith

True Story : True Faith The fourth chapter from William Bradford’s Of Plymouth Plantation, gives the reader some insight as to the trials and tribulations of the English explorers. Bradford gives a long very detailed description of the sea voyage to Cape Cod. He then goes on to tell about the experiences once a safe arrival is secured. In all of his descriptions, Bradford seems to spend more time describing the negative aspects of the adventures. It is not that Bradford is trying to belittle America he simply states the complete truth in his writing. There is no sugar coating or use of words that will persuade the reader to want to make the journey. Of Plymouth Plantation is the full truth behind what the English survived and how they got through their roughest times. Bradford uses this book as a method of recording how strongly these people believed in God and how hard they w

The first story that Bradford tells is that of a young man who is sole interest is collecting the belongings of those who die on the voyage. The man becomes infected with a disease that is fatal. "They fell upon their knees and blessed the God of Heaven who had brought them over his vast and furious ocean". He explains to the reader that these people made the exhausting trip looking only to God for help and solace. They did what they could to fix the vessel and then they "committed themselves to the will of God and resolved to proceed. Even when they reached safe ground they remembered to praise their Lord for helping them. (61)" Throughout all of their rejoicing and their happiness they remembered that they had prayed to God for help and he had answered. Bradford gives a true account of this journey and in doing so does a great service by recording a true belief in God and true dedication from the people. In the next situation, the seamen doubt the ability of the boat. (61)" They had also arrived on Cape Cod in the winter, probably the worst season to try and start a new life in. There was "no friends to welcome them nor inns to entertain or refresh their weatherbeaten bodies. They believed that what was done for those in the Bible would be done for them as well. (60)" The people on the ship knew they were taking a risk but they let their amazing faith in God guide them through the rough waters.