Classic and Contemporary Poets

Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753–1784) was the first African American author of a published book of poetry. Born in West Africa, she was enslaved and brought to America at a young age. Her remarkable literary talents emerged early, and she became a prominent figure in the 18th-century American literary scene, renowned for her eloquent poetry and engagement with contemporary political and social issues.

Literary Background and Influences

Wheatley received an education uncommon for women of her time, let alone enslaved individuals, under the guidance of the Wheatley family in Boston, who supported her literary pursuits. She was influenced by the works of classical poets like Virgil and Ovid, as well as by English poets such as Alexander Pope and John Milton. Her writing also reflects the religious and moral teachings of her time.

Association with Literary Movements

Phillis Wheatley's work is often associated with the early American and Neoclassical movements. Her poetry followed the formal conventions and styles of the period, characterized by its adherence to classical forms and Enlightenment ideals of reason and order.

Literary Oeuvre

Wheatley's collection of poems, "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral" (1773), was the first book of poetry published by an African American. Her poems often address themes of freedom, morality, and religion, and she is known for her elegies commemorating prominent figures of the time.

Themes

*Slavery and Freedom: As an enslaved African American, Wheatley's work subtly explores themes of slavery and freedom. Her poetry often reflects on the moral contradictions of slavery in a society valuing freedom and Christian principles.

*Religion and Morality: Her poems frequently incorporate religious motifs, reflecting her Christian faith and the prevailing religious ethos of her time. She often used biblical allusions to explore moral and ethical themes.

*Classical Influences and Enlightenment Ideals: Wheatley's poetry is infused with references to classical literature and mythology, reflecting the influence of the Enlightenment on her education and intellectual development.

*Elegiac and Commemorative Poems: Many of Wheatley's poems are elegies or commemorations of public figures, reflecting on the themes of death, legacy, and the human experience.

Honors and Legacy

Phillis Wheatley's achievements in literature were extraordinary, considering the barriers of race and gender in her time. Her work garnered international attention and she was celebrated in both America and England for her poetic talents. Her legacy lies in her pioneering role in American literature, where she broke racial and gender barriers and paved the way for future African American writers.

Conclusion

Phillis Wheatley's contribution to American literature is significant, not only for the quality and depth of her poetry but also for her status as a trailblazer in the face of immense societal challenges. Her work remains a testament to her intellectual prowess and her ability to artfully navigate the complexities of race, gender, and freedom in the era of slavery. Her legacy endures as a foundational part of American literary history and a powerful symbol of the enduring human spirit.

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