Increase Mather

Increase Mather (1639-1723) was a major Puritan minister, author, and political figure in colonial Massachusetts who served as president of Harvard College and wrote extensively on theology, history, and science. As one of colonial America's most influential religious leaders, Mather published more than 130 works covering topics from witchcraft to astronomy. His most notable publications include "Remarkable Providences" (1684) and several texts defending the Salem witch trials, though he later expressed some regret about the trials' excesses. The father of Cotton Mather, Increase Mather played a crucial role in obtaining a new charter for Massachusetts in 1692 during his time as colonial agent in England. His work as a minister at Boston's North Church spanned over 60 years, making him one of the most prominent religious figures in colonial New England. During his tenure as Harvard's president from 1685 to 1701, Mather helped establish the institution's academic standards and defended its charter. His scientific interests, though filtered through a religious lens, contributed to early American intellectual discourse on natural phenomena and astronomy.

Most reader reviews of Increase Mather focus on his historical significance rather than the literary quality of his works. Readers studying Colonial American history and Puritan thought reference his writings as primary sources. Readers appreciate: - Detailed firsthand accounts of 17th century New England life - Documentation of early American religious practices - Historical records of Salem witch trials Common criticisms: - Dense, difficult-to-read writing style - Heavy religious moralizing - Repetitive arguments - Limited appeal beyond academic research On Goodreads, Mather's works average 3.2/5 stars across 50+ ratings. His "Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits" receives the most reviews, with readers noting its value as a historical document while criticizing its outdated viewpoints. One reader called it "fascinating but troubling primary source material." Amazon reviews are sparse, with most of his works receiving fewer than 5 ratings each. Academic citations far outnumber general reader reviews.

Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits (1693) A theological examination of witchcraft, possession, and supernatural phenomena during the Salem witch trials.

Remarkable Providences (1684) Chronicles unusual events and perceived divine interventions in New England, including storms, accidents, and apparent supernatural occurrences.

An Essay for the Recording of Illustrious Providences (1684) Documents various religious experiences and supernatural events reported by New England colonists.

A Brief History of the War with the Indians in New-England (1676) Details King Philip's War between Native Americans and English colonists from 1675 to 1676.

The Day of Trouble Is Near (1674) Discusses signs and prophecies relating to impending divine judgment on New England.

The Life and Death of That Reverend Man of God, Mr. Richard Mather (1670) Biography of the author's father, detailing his life as a Puritan minister in colonial New England.

Some Important Truths About Conversion (1674) Theological treatise examining the process of religious conversion and salvation.

A Discourse Concerning Comets (1683) Scientific and religious analysis of comets and their meaning in relation to divine providence.

A Further Account of the Tryals of the New-England Witches (1693) Detailed documentation of witch trials in colonial New England, including testimonies and proceedings.