Phillis Wheatley

Definition

Phillis Wheatley was the first published African American female poet in the United States, known for her significant contributions to literature during the 18th century. She was born in West Africa and brought to America as a slave, but her talents in writing were recognized by her owners, who encouraged her education. Wheatley's work often addressed themes of freedom, religion, and race, making her a pivotal figure in the context of African American history and the broader literary landscape of her time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phillis Wheatley was born around 1753 in Senegal, West Africa, and was enslaved at the age of seven when she was brought to America.
2. Her first book of poetry, "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," was published in 1773, making her the first African American to publish a book.
3. Wheatley's poetry was widely recognized and praised by prominent figures, including George Washington, who admired her work.
4. Despite her literary success, Wheatley faced societal challenges as a Black woman in America, including issues related to her status as an enslaved person.
5. Her writings often challenged the prevailing views on race and slavery, advocating for freedom and the inherent dignity of all individuals.

Review Questions

• How did Phillis Wheatley's background as an enslaved person influence her poetry and themes?
  • Phillis Wheatley's background as an enslaved person greatly influenced her poetry by shaping the themes of freedom and religion present in her work. Being forcibly removed from her homeland and subjected to enslavement provided her with a unique perspective on liberty, which she often explored in her poems. Wheatley utilized her literary voice to express both personal struggles and broader societal issues related to race and oppression, making her work resonate with readers seeking justice and understanding.
• In what ways did Phillis Wheatley contribute to colonial literature and how was she received by her contemporaries?
  • Phillis Wheatley's contributions to colonial literature were significant, as she became a trailblazer for African American authors. Her poetry broke racial barriers and showcased the intellectual capabilities of Black individuals at a time when such notions were heavily contested. Wheatley was received positively by many contemporaries; prominent figures like George Washington praised her work, demonstrating that her literary talent transcended racial prejudices of the period. However, she also faced skepticism from others who questioned whether a Black woman could produce such sophisticated literature.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Phillis Wheatley's work on later generations of African American writers and the literary movement.
  • Phillis Wheatley's work had a profound impact on subsequent generations of African American writers by paving the way for future authors to explore themes of identity, freedom, and race through literature. Her success as the first published African American female poet provided inspiration and a model for others to follow in expressing their voices against oppression. As the literary movement evolved over time, Wheatley's legacy became intertwined with the struggle for civil rights and equality, influencing prominent figures such as Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou who drew from her pioneering spirit in their own works.

Related terms

Enslavement: The condition of being owned by another person and forced to work without compensation, which was a critical aspect of Wheatley's life experience.

Colonial Literature: The body of literary work produced during the colonial period in America, which included poetry, essays, and narratives reflecting the culture and society of that time.

Sons of Liberty: A group of American patriots who opposed British taxation and played a significant role in the push for independence, illustrating the growing tensions during Wheatley's lifetime.