Meaning: The quote "Must not I then entertain the saints because I must keep my conscience." by Anne Hutchinson reflects a key aspect of her beliefs and the controversy surrounding her during the early colonial period in America. Anne Hutchinson was a Puritan woman who lived in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 17th century and is known for her role in challenging the religious and gender norms of the time.

In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is important to consider the context in which it was spoken. Anne Hutchinson was a devout Puritan who held religious gatherings in her home where she discussed sermons and religious teachings. These gatherings attracted a large following and sparked controversy within the Puritan community. Hutchinson's unconventional views and her role as a charismatic and influential female figure in the religious sphere clashed with the established authority of the Puritan clergy.

The quote itself reflects Hutchinson's unwavering commitment to her own conscience and beliefs, even in the face of opposition from religious authorities. The term "entertain the saints" likely refers to the traditional obligation to welcome and host respected members of the religious community. Hutchinson's assertion that she must prioritize her conscience over this obligation underscores her firm conviction in the righteousness of her own beliefs.

The quote also encapsulates the broader theme of religious dissent and individual conscience that characterized Hutchinson's defiance of the Puritan establishment. Hutchinson's religious views were deeply rooted in the idea of direct personal revelation and a rejection of the notion that salvation could be earned through good works. Her teachings challenged the authority of the clergy and the established Puritan doctrine, leading to a highly publicized trial and her eventual banishment from the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

Hutchinson's assertion that she must prioritize her conscience over social expectations and religious obligations reflects her belief in the primacy of individual spiritual experience and personal relationship with God. This emphasis on conscience and personal conviction was a radical departure from the hierarchical and institutionalized nature of Puritanism at the time.

The quote also highlights the tension between individual autonomy and religious authority, a tension that has been a recurring theme throughout history. Hutchinson's refusal to compromise her conscience in order to conform to societal or religious norms represents a timeless struggle for individuals who seek to assert their own beliefs and values in the face of opposition.

In conclusion, Anne Hutchinson's quote "Must not I then entertain the saints because I must keep my conscience" encapsulates her unwavering commitment to her own beliefs and her defiance of established religious authority. The quote reflects Hutchinson's emphasis on individual conscience and personal revelation, as well as her willingness to prioritize her own convictions over social and religious expectations. Hutchinson's role in challenging the religious and gender norms of her time has left a lasting impact on the history of religious dissent and individual autonomy.