=HELPS TO STUDY=
Miles Standish was one of the early settlers of Plymouth colony. He came
over soon after the landing of the _Mayflower_ and was made captain of
the colony because of his military experience. The feeble settlement was
in danger from the Indians, and Standish's services were of great
importance. He was one of the leaders of Plymouth for a number of years.
Longfellow shaped the legend of his courtship into one of the most
beautiful poems of American literature, vividly describing the hardships
and perils of the early life of New England.
I. Where is the scene of the story laid? At what time did it begin?
What is the first impression you get of Miles Standish? of John
Alden? Read the lines that bring out the soldierly qualities of the
one and the studious nature of the other. What lines show that
Standish had fought on foreign soil? Read the lines that show John
Alden's interest in Priscilla. What request did Standish make of
Alden? How was it received? Why did Alden accept the task?
II. What time of the year was it? How do you know? Contrast Alden's
feelings with the scene around him. What were Priscilla's feelings
toward Alden? Quote lines that show this. How did he fulfill his
task? With what question did Priscilla finally meet his eloquent
appeal in behalf of his friend? How did Standish receive Alden's
report? What interruption occurred?
III. What report brought about the marriage of John Alden and
Priscilla? Read the lines that describe the beauty of their
wedding-day. What time of year was it? How do you know? What custom
was followed in the marriage ceremony? Look in the Bible for a
description of the marriage of Ruth and Boaz. Find other biblical
references in the poem. Who appeared at the end of the ceremony?
How was he received? Contrast his mood now with the mood when he
left to fight the Indians. What adage did he use to show the
difference between his age and Priscilla's? Describe the final
scene of the wedding--the procession to the new home. Tell what you
know of early life in Massachusetts.