Explain how the Puritans viewed people who did not conform to their rules

The Puritans, who were a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries, had a strict and uncompromising view of religious and social conformity. They believed in a rigid interpretation of Christianity and sought to create a society based on their religious principles. Those who did not conform to Puritan rules were often viewed with suspicion and faced social ostracism.

Non-conformists, including individuals with different religious beliefs or those who engaged in behaviors considered contrary to Puritan values, were often marginalized within the community. The Puritans believed in a collective responsibility for maintaining a righteous society, and deviations from their established norms were seen as a threat to the cohesion of the community and its perceived covenant with God.

Non-conformists might face various consequences, such as public shaming, exclusion from community activities, or even legal action. The Puritans' strict adherence to their religious and social principles shaped their perception of those who did not conform, leading to a less tolerant and inclusive environment within their communities.