There may not be two more contrasting characters of early America than Thomas Morton and John Winthrop. Morton was nicknamed the “Leader of Misrule” while Winthrop was seen as the “model of [a] perfect earthly ruler” (147). These two figures not only helped colonize a new land, but also had first-hand knowledge of each other. They are not two people who have lived years apart from each other, but rather have lived at the same time. With two such polarizing people living in a little new land, it was inevitable that there would be at least one disagreement. We are fortunate to have writings by each of these two fascinating men. One cannot help but be deeply entertained by reading the words each man left behind. Morton was the rowdy rebel and Winthrop was the conservative preacher. Everyone had different ideas and ideals about what America would become. Their two opinions could not differ much from each other, but both were not entirely right. It seems that America has found a middle ground. Perhaps these two help chart the path to where we are now. Thomas Morton was not a supporter of the Puritan cause. In fact, he was friends with many "people in high places" in King Charles' court who "were all unsympathetic to the Puritans" (138). In his writings he is relentless in prodding and mocking the Puritans. It is clear that he had a strong dislike for them. It is also clear that he was well versed in the classics. He makes numerous allusions to Greek mythology that offer glimpses into his educational background. He wasn't against cheating to get ahead. Before coming to America, a business partner of his was murdered and Morton was suspected but never arrested (138). Upon his arrival in America he soon aroused the ire of... middle of paper...ton was arrested and sent back to England with John Winthrop around. Winthrop had no place in his ideal colony for a man like Morton interested only in partying and wealth. Winthrop wanted men who lived for Christ. Morton wanted to have fun. These two men were polar opposites and lived very close to each other. While it created tension and conflict between the two, it also created an interesting historical moment for today's readers. Each man had extreme visions of what he wanted in America. Morton wanted a playground while Winthrop wanted a new religious life to live for God. Ultimately, both were not entirely successful. America has found a middle ground, where some people live for God and others for leisure. These people have also learned to live together in this wonderful free country of ours.