Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753–1784) was the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry. A remarkable figure in both American and literary history, Wheatley overcame the hardships of enslavement to become a renowned poet in the 18th century. Her work, marked by classical influences and spiritual themes, is celebrated for its intellectual depth and poetic grace.
Phillis Wheatley Biography
Phillis Wheatley was born around 1753 in West Africa, though the exact details of her birth and early life remain unclear. Captured and enslaved at a young age, she was brought to Boston, Massachusetts, in 1761 aboard the slave ship Phillis, from which she took her name. Upon her arrival in America, Wheatley was purchased by John Wheatley, a wealthy merchant, and his wife, Susannah, who recognized her intelligence and allowed her to receive an education. At a time when few African Americans were educated, let alone enslaved people, Wheatley’s early access to reading and writing set her apart.
Under the Wheatley family’s guidance, she became proficient in English, Latin, Greek, and classical literature, a rare accomplishment for a woman of her background. By the age of 12, Wheatley had already written her first poem, and by 14, she had composed a wide range of poems in English and Latin. Her education enabled her to engage with the works of major European poets and philosophers, including John Milton, Alexander Pope, and Virgil. Wheatley’s writing was steeped in classical references, and her poems often explored themes of Christian piety, classical mythology, and the dignity of humanity.
Phillis Wheatley gained recognition in 1773 when she published her first collection of poems, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral. The book, which was printed in London, became a significant cultural event, as it was one of the first published works by an African American and the first by an enslaved person. The book’s success, however, was not without controversy. While Wheatley’s poetic talent was undeniable, many critics doubted her ability to have written such sophisticated work due to her race and status as a slave. In fact, the publication of her book required a group of prominent Boston residents to publicly affirm her authorship.
Despite the challenges she faced as a Black woman in a predominantly white society, Wheatley’s poetry earned her recognition in both the colonies and in England. She became a symbol of the intellectual and creative potential of enslaved people, challenging prevailing stereotypes and preconceptions about race. Wheatley corresponded with several prominent figures of the time, including George Washington, who praised her work, and she used her literary platform to engage with issues such as liberty and freedom.
Sadly, Wheatley’s life was short. After being freed from slavery in 1778, she married John Peters, a merchant, but faced financial difficulties. Wheatley continued to write but struggled to achieve the same recognition she had earlier in her life. She died in 1784, at the age of around 31, in poverty and relative obscurity. However, her legacy as a pioneering African American poet endures, and she remains an important figure in the history of American literature and African American culture.
Phillis Wheatley Poems
1.On Being Brought from Africa to America
One of Wheatley’s most famous works, On Being Brought from Africa to America reflects her experience of being enslaved. In this poem, Wheatley expresses gratitude for her Christian conversion and reflects on the notion of salvation and racial equality. She speaks of the “mercy” she received through her conversion to Christianity, while also subtly addressing the prejudices faced by Black people.
2.To the University of Cambridge, in New England
In this poem, Wheatley encourages students at Harvard University to seek knowledge and pursue virtue. She reminds them of their privilege in receiving education and urges them to reflect on their moral duties. The poem also incorporates themes of classical learning and Christian piety, demonstrating Wheatley’s command of both classical literature and religious thought.
3.A Farewell to America
Written when Wheatley traveled to London to publish her book, A Farewell to America expresses her bittersweet feelings about leaving her homeland. The poem is filled with a sense of nostalgia and longing, as Wheatley reflects on her experiences in America and bids farewell to her friends and family.
4.To S. M., a Young African Painter, on Seeing His Works
This poem honors the young African artist Scipio Moorhead, who was a fellow enslaved person. Wheatley praises his artistic talents and encourages him to continue creating, while also recognizing the significance of art as a form of human expression and freedom.
5.Imagination
In Imagination, Wheatley explores the power of the imagination to transcend the limitations of the material world. The poem celebrates the ability of the mind to soar above earthly concerns and engage with the divine and the eternal, reflecting Wheatley’s belief in the potential of the human soul.
6.On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield
This elegy is written in honor of George Whitefield, an influential evangelical preacher who died in 1770. Wheatley’s poem reflects her admiration for Whitefield’s religious zeal and his efforts to spread Christianity. The poem demonstrates her deep Christian faith and her ability to express complex theological ideas.
7.To His Excellency General Washington
Wheatley wrote this poem in honor of George Washington, praising his leadership during the American Revolution. She offers Washington praise for his bravery and vision, even likening him to a heroic figure in classical mythology. The poem reflects her belief in the values of liberty and independence, and it showcases her ability to intertwine political and literary themes.
Epitaph on the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield
Another elegiac poem dedicated to Whitefield, this piece serves as a memorial to the preacher’s life and legacy. It focuses on the theme of immortality, expressing a belief in spiritual transcendence and the eternal nature of the soul.
8.To the Right Honourable William, Earl of Dartmouth
In this poem, Wheatley addresses William Legge, the Earl of Dartmouth, who was a supporter of the American colonies. She expresses hope that he will advocate for the freedom of enslaved people and promotes the idea of liberty and justice for all.
9.To a Gentleman and Lady on the Death of Their Daughter
This somber poem expresses condolences for the loss of a child, reflecting on the brevity of life and the promise of eternal peace. Wheatley explores themes of grief, mortality, and the Christian hope for resurrection.
Phillis Wheatley Quotes
1.”‘Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land, Taught my benighted soul to understand.”
2.”In every human breast God has implanted a principle, which we call love.”
3.”What joy, what delight, to see the great men of the earth!”
4.”The mind is the standard of the man.”
5.”Liberty is the sweetest thing to be desired.”
6.”To be a Christian, is the best and noblest thing that can be.”
7.”To my countrymen, I humbly wish to say, that the rights of freedom are the gifts of nature.”
8.”I hope the world will be as grateful to me as it has been to others.”
9.”Though I am black, I am human too.”
10.”You will be the pride of our country and the glory of the world.”
Phillis Wheatley Facts
1.Phillis Wheatley was the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry.
2.She was enslaved at the age of seven and brought to Boston in 1761.
3.Wheatley’s book Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral was published in 1773.
4.She was educated by the Wheatley family, learning Latin, Greek, and classical literature.
5.Wheatley was an influential figure in the American Revolutionary period, writing poems in support of liberty.
6.She corresponded with several prominent figures of the time, including George Washington.
7.Despite her success, Wheatley faced skepticism about her authorship due to her race.
8.She was freed from slavery in 1778 and married John Peters in 1779.
9.Wheatley died in poverty in 1784, at the age of around 31.
10.Wheatley’s poetry challenged contemporary views of African Americans and remains a key part of American literary history.