Anne Hutchinson

For my Counter Cultural Figure, I chose Anne Hutchinson. Anne Hutchinson was brought to trial for going against the beliefs and teachings of preachers in the town. During her trial, she stepped out of the expectations of women of the time period, and challenged governor Winthrop in his accusations against her.

“I think I may. — Do you think it not lawful for me to teach women and why do you call me to teach the court?”

While the average person under trial would never argue against the governor, Anne Hutchinson saw his flaws in his accusations and backfired them onto him. She made an impact on the society of that time by being one of the first and few women to challenge the authority of a government official, especially that of a man. Consequently, however, she was banished from the town and killed by a tribe of Native American’s. Her stance against the government made a significant difference, and is still recognized today.

Boom, roasted

2 Responses to Anne Hutchinson

Larke Nimocks says:

October 17, 2011 at 3:18 pm

This quotation from Anne Hutchinson is very interesting that she not only is arguing with the governor, but she also questions him and challenges his actions. Living in a conservative society, she clearly stepped over her boundaries and as Livy points out, it is recognized for years after and even still recalled today.

pmetscher44 says:

October 17, 2011 at 3:20 pm

I enjoy Anne’s fiery remarks at the governor. Most Puritan men would not have disputed the accusations made against them by the governor, but a Puritan woman doing so is unheard of. Anne Hutchinson showed great strength and courage by standing up for what she believed in, and must have been a great inspiration to the women of her era.