Summary

“Jacataqua” is an essay about how the Puritans have had an impact on the sexual mores of modern America. The celebration of pragmatism, of America's industry and wealth comes at the expense of a “beauty of the spirit.” Americans have put “the force of enterprise” between themselves and their desires. The result is an American woman who has no passion. For contrast, Williams tells the story of Jacataqua, the Abenaki chieftess, meeting and instantly falling for Aaron Burr in Maine during the Revolutionary War. Aaron Burr falls for her, too.

The author continues his look at Burr in “The Virtue of History.” This essay is in the form of a dialog between Williams and another person or alter ego who argue about Burr’s actions and reputation. Williams champions Burr and argues that history is deceptive. People need to look...