Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses racism, violence, enslavement, sexual assault, child death, and suicide. Additionally, the source material uses offensive terms for Indigenous Americans throughout, which is replicated in this guide only in direct quotes of the source material.

One of the central trials for Mary Rowlandson and other characters in Flight of the Sparrow is the strict requirements of Puritan doctrine, which Mary and her children eventually challenge. Key moments of defiance are catalyzed by their experience living with the Indigenous Americans. Mary’s transformed views of Puritan doctrine are spurred by her interactions with Bess Parker and then cemented during her captivity when she experiences a loss of faith and sees a different way of life among the Nipmuc. Her changing views contrast with the staunchly orthodox views of her husband, Joseph Rowlandson, and his benefactor, Increase Mather, and her defiance is largely directed at these patriarchal figures.

Puritan society in the early Americas had strict rules of behavior, especially for women and children. Dancing and games were prohibited. Women were discouraged from leaving the house on their own. Children were expected to spend their time doing chores and could be beaten for disobedience.