Phillis Wheatley

Definition

Phillis Wheatley was the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry, emerging as a prominent literary figure in the 18th century. Her work reflects the complexities of her identity as an enslaved person who became a celebrated poet in colonial America, highlighting themes of freedom, faith, and the human condition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa around 1753 and was brought to Boston as an enslaved child at the age of seven.
2. Her first collection of poems, 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral,' was published in 1773 when she was just 20 years old.
3. Wheatley's work often drew on classical themes and references, showcasing her education and literacy despite her status as an enslaved woman.
4. She wrote poems addressing prominent figures of her time, including George Washington, who acknowledged her talent and contributions to American literature.
5. Wheatley's legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions around race, identity, and the power of literature to challenge social norms.

Review Questions

• How did Phillis Wheatley's identity as an enslaved woman influence her writing and the themes present in her poetry?
  • Phillis Wheatley's identity as an enslaved woman profoundly shaped her writing. Her poems often reflect the struggles for freedom and humanity faced by enslaved individuals while also embracing themes of faith and divine providence. By navigating her unique position in society, she challenged contemporary perceptions of race and intellect, asserting her voice as a talented poet who deserved recognition despite her marginalized status.
• In what ways did Phillis Wheatley's poetry engage with Enlightenment ideals, and how did this reflect the cultural context of her time?
  • Phillis Wheatley's poetry engaged with Enlightenment ideals by emphasizing reason, moral virtue, and individual rights. Through her work, she not only celebrated the principles of liberty and equality but also questioned the societal norms surrounding race and slavery. By positioning herself within this intellectual tradition, Wheatley demonstrated that African Americans could contribute meaningfully to discussions about freedom and humanity during a time when their voices were often silenced.
• Evaluate the impact of Phillis Wheatley's literary contributions on the abolitionist movement and subsequent generations of African American writers.
  • Phillis Wheatley's literary contributions laid a crucial foundation for the abolitionist movement by demonstrating that enslaved individuals were capable of profound thought and artistic expression. Her published works provided evidence against prevailing stereotypes that undermined the intellectual capabilities of African Americans. This influence resonated through subsequent generations of African American writers who drew inspiration from her legacy to advocate for social change, assert their identities, and explore themes of racial injustice in their own literary endeavors.

Related terms

Enlightenment: A cultural and intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and the importance of scientific inquiry.

Abolitionism: The movement to end slavery and the slave trade, which gained momentum in the late 18th and 19th centuries and sought to promote equality for all individuals.

Sublime: A literary and artistic concept referring to experiences that inspire awe or transcendence, often explored in Wheatley's poetry as she grapples with themes of divinity and freedom.