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Why were drama and fiction uncommon in 17th-century colonial America?

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John Smith: Map of Virginia — American literature Map of Virginia from John Smith's *The Generall Historie of Virginia, New England, and the Summer Isles*, 1624.

In 17th-century colonial America, drama and fiction were uncommon primarily due to widespread cultural and religious prejudice against these literary forms.1

The prevailing social and moral climate, heavily influenced by Puritanism, viewed such works with suspicion. Puritans were characterized by a spirit of moral and religious earnestness, often prioritizing utilitarian writings—such as sermons, treatises, and historical accounts—that served their religious mission or documented the development of their covenanted communities. Because these settlers sought to create a society based on biblical law, they frequently regarded theatrical performances and fictional narratives as morally objectionable or frivolous.123

Consequently, the literature of the period was largely functional, focusing on religious instruction, colonial promotion, and political debate. It was not until the early 18th century that theatre began to develop in North America, often facing continued resistance from legislatures that sought to prohibit performances on moral grounds.12