Poems on various subjects, religious and moral (eBook)

Phillis Wheatley (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
39 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654721104-4 (EAN)

Infos

In *Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral*, Phillis Wheatley captivates readers with her eloquent verse, exploring themes of faith, morality, and the human experience through a deeply personal lens. Written during the 18th century, this groundbreaking collection showcases Wheatley's neoclassical style, marked by its adherence to traditional poetic forms and rhymes while simultaneously infusing her own voice as an enslaved African woman. Through her work, she addresses both the societal constraints imposed upon her and the spiritual aspirations that transcend those limitations, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of race, religion, and literature in colonial America. Phillis Wheatley, born in Senegal around 1753 and brought to America as a slave, emerged as the first published African American female poet. Her literary achievements were unprecedented and established her as a significant figure in American literature. Wheatley's eloquent engagement with classical themes and her defiance of contemporary prejudices highlight her intellect and resilience, making her work a pivotal contribution to the abolitionist movement and a testament to her personal faith and enduring spirit. Readers will find *Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral* not only a beautiful collection of poetry but a vital historical document. Wheatley's ability to articulate profound truths about the human condition invites readers to reflect on issues of identity, freedom, and morality. This work is essential for anyone seeking to understand the African American literary tradition and the role of faith in the complex fabric of early American society.

Autor

Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753 – December 5, 1784) was the first African-American woman to publish a book of poetry. Born in West Africa, she was sold into slavery at the age of seven or eight and transported to North America. She was purchased by the Wheatley family of Boston, who taught her to read and write and encouraged her poetry when they saw her talent. In 1773, her collection 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral' was published, marking a significant moment in American literary history. Wheatley's poetry is characterized by its classical references and Christian themes. She wrote in the neoclassical style of the time, emphasizing formality and adherence to classical poetic structures. Her work was generally well-received, with patrons in both England and the American colonies, and it contributed to the genre of 18th-century American literature. Despite being enslaved for most of her life, Wheatley's mastery of language and form was praised by many contemporary writers, including George Washington. Sadly, she died young, and her later works were lost, but her legacy as a pioneering African-American poet endures. Phillis Wheatley's life and work are often cited as early examples of African-American literature contributing to broader conversations of freedom and human rights in the era of slavery.

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 4.9.2022
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Literatur ► Lyrik / Dramatik ► Lyrik / Gedichte
• Themenwelt: Geisteswissenschaften ► Sprach- / Literaturwissenschaft ► Latein / Altgriechisch
• Schlagworte: 18th century Literature • 18th-century poetry • 18th century verse • African american authors • African American literature • african american poetry • American female poets • American Literary Heritage • American Literature • American poetry • Artistic Expression • Classical poetry • classic american literature • Early American verse • enlightenment era • faith and morality • female empowerment • historical perspective • historical significance • inspirational poetic works • intellectual challenge • Literary legacy • moral reflections • Moral thematic poetry • Neoclassical style • phillis wheatley • Phillis Wheatley poems • Religious poetry • religious themes • resilient voices • Slave narrative poetry • social justice themes