Jonathan Edwards, a prominent figure in American literature and philosophy, was born on October 5, 1703, in East Windsor, Connecticut. He was the son of a minister and grew up in a deeply religious environment that would shape his intellectual and spiritual pursuits. Edwards was a precocious child, displaying remarkable talents in reading and writing from a young age. He attended Yale College at the age of 13, where he immersed himself in theology and philosophy, laying the groundwork for his future as a theologian and writer.

Edwards is best known for his role in the First Great Awakening, a religious revival movement in the 18th century that emphasized personal piety and emotional engagement with faith. His most notable works include "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," a sermon that vividly illustrates the consequences of sin and the nature of divine wrath. Other significant writings include "The Freedom of the Will," where he explores the complexities of human choice in relation to divine sovereignty, and "A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections," which delves into the nature of true religious experience.

Throughout his literary career, Edwards combined theology with philosophical inquiry, earning him recognition as one of America's first philosophers. His eloquent prose and profound insights influenced not only religious thought but also the broader landscape of American literature. Edwards's works often reflect a deep engagement with the natural world, which he viewed as a manifestation of God's glory.

In his personal life, Jonathan Edwards married Sarah Pierpont in 1727, and they had eleven children together. His family life was marked by both joys and challenges, as he navigated the demands of his ministry in Northampton, Massachusetts, and later as the president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University). Edwards died on March 22, 1758, in Princeton, New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire scholars and readers alike. His contributions to both literature and theology remain significant in the study of American thought and culture.