Below you will find the prompt for the short answer question. The response only needs to be two paragraphs and must quote/use textual evidence at least twice from the works being discussed. (John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity” and “City Upon a Hill.” )

QUESTION

Below you will find the prompt for the short answer question. The response only needs to be two paragraphs and must quote/use textual evidence at least twice from the works being discussed.
(John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity” and “City Upon a Hill.” )

John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity,” which inspires the Puritan mission to become a “city upon a hill.”
This prevailing concept of American Exceptionalism also pervades the mindset of later generations of Americans who will follow course. But what exactly is it that makes America exceptional? We have often held ourselves, as Winthrop’s congregation did, as a beacon of light for others, what Lincoln called “the last best hope of the earth.” Consider the inscription on the Statue of Liberty that reads, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” We have held ourselves as a refuge of light. But are we? Should we be? Does America offer something special? Something that sets it apart from other nations? Now, nearly 400 years after the passengers of the Arbella climbed ashore, do we still think of ourselves as a “city upon a hill”?

ANSWER

American Exceptionalism and the Legacy of John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity”

John Winthrop’s sermon, “A Model of Christian Charity,” delivered aboard the Arbella in 1630, laid the groundwork for the concept of American Exceptionalism—a belief in the unique destiny and moral responsibility of the United States. This notion of being a “city upon a hill,” a beacon of light for others, has persisted through generations of Americans, shaping their self-perception as a nation. Winthrop’s vision of a righteous and virtuous community bound by a covenant with God has deeply influenced the American psyche, driving the idea that the nation has a special role to play in the world.

In his sermon, Winthrop emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and mutual care within the community, forming the basis of their exceptional mission. He argues that if the Puritans uphold their part of the covenant and exhibit godly love towards one another, God will bless their endeavor and make them a model society for the world to emulate. This religiously rooted vision of a chosen nation has had a profound impact on the American identity, giving rise to the idea that the United States is called to exemplify liberty, equality, and justice for all. These principles are evident in the Statue of Liberty’s inscription, inviting the downtrodden and oppressed from around the globe to seek refuge in the land of freedom.

However, as America has evolved over centuries, questions have arisen about the authenticity of this exceptionalism. Critics argue that the nation’s history is marred by instances of injustice, inequality, and discrimination, challenging the notion of a flawless “city upon a hill.” While the ideals espoused by Winthrop and later leaders like Lincoln remain aspirational, acknowledging past failings allows for a more nuanced understanding of American exceptionalism. It becomes a dynamic and evolving concept, pushing the nation to strive for its founding principles while addressing its historical shortcomings.

In conclusion, the legacy of John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity” has instilled in Americans a sense of exceptionalism and moral responsibility. The notion of being a “city upon a hill” has guided the nation’s self-perception and inspired its role as a beacon of hope and refuge. While the journey towards embodying these ideals has been challenging and imperfect, the idea of American exceptionalism continues to shape the nation’s collective identity and aspirations for the future.

References:
– Winthrop, J. (1630). “A Model of Christian Charity.” In American Literature, Volume 1, 2nd edition. Bedford/St. Martin’s.
– Statue of Liberty National Monument. (n.d.). Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty. National Park Service. [URL] (if available)