Old Portraits and Modern Sketches Part 1 from Volume VI of The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier

"Old Portraits and Modern Sketches" by John Greenleaf Whittier is a compilation of historical writings and personal observations, probably created in the 1800s, which shines a light on important people from the past and thinks about major events, crafting a mix of life stories and history designed to teach readers about yesterday's happenings. Launching with the story of John Bunyan, Whittier creates a tone that is respectful and thoughtful, capturing Bunyan's challenges with hardship and temptation, as well as the effect that his writings, especially "Pilgrim’s Progress," had on the world. The story shares Bunyan's intense change from a wild young man into a strong person of faith, stressing his powerful pursuit of truth when things got tough and setting a serious mood for the collection.