Which subject heavily influenced the themes present in early American writings?

The themes present in early American writings were heavily influenced by religious authority and moral instruction. During the colonial period and the early years of the United States, many writers were not only exploring the new American identity but also grappling with the moral and ethical implications of their experiences and beliefs. Religion played a central role in shaping the values, narratives, and cultural norms of the time, promoting themes of morality, piety, and the quest for divine guidance.

Many early American authors were influenced by Puritanism and other religious movements, which emphasized the importance of faith, community, and individual moral integrity. This focus on moral instruction led to literature that often sought to guide readers in ethical living and understanding their relationship with a higher power. Additionally, the societal concerns during this time related to governance, individual rights, and community responsibilities were often framed within a religious context, further intertwining faith with the exploration of human experience.

The other options, while relevant in different contexts, did not dominate the themes in early American writings to the same extent. Economic inequality, the complexity of human nature, and advancements in natural science played significant roles in later American literature but were not as foundational to the early works, which were more directly tied to religious beliefs and moral questions.