Historian A: John Morrill – Political and Religious Conflict

"Historian John Morrill argues that the Puritan challenge was primarily a political threat to royal authority. He emphasizes the Puritans' desire to reform the church and their opposition to the King’s policies as a direct challenge to royal power. Morrill suggests that their persistent demands and refusal to accept compromises made them a significant political force that contributed to the tensions leading to the Civil War. He sees the Puritans as political revolutionaries who aimed to limit the King's authority and influence the structure of government."

Historian B: Christopher Hill – Social and Cultural Impact

"Historian Christopher Hill views the Puritan challenge mainly as a social and cultural movement that reflected wider societal changes. He argues that Puritans sought to reshape society according to their religious ideals, promoting moral reforms and social discipline. Hill emphasizes that their challenge was rooted in religious conviction rather than political rebellion. He believes that their influence extended beyond politics, affecting everyday life and community values, which created a moral crisis that challenged the existing social order."