Classic and Contemporary Poets

Sarah Josepha Buell Hale's contributions to literature and society stand as a testament to the power of advocacy through the written word. Born on October 24, 1788, in Newport, New Hampshire, she became a prominent literary figure and editor despite the limited formal education available to women at the time. After her husband's death, Hale turned to writing to support her family, showcasing the potential of women to excel beyond traditional roles, even in times of personal adversity.

Literary Background: Hale's literary career began in earnest with her novel "Northwood: Life North and South" (1827), which addressed slavery and life in both regions of the United States. But it was her role as the editor of "Godey's Lady's Book" that made her a household name. Under her editorship, the magazine became one of the most influential publications of the time, promoting literature, fashion, and domestic arts. She held this position for nearly 50 years, using it as a platform to advocate for women's rights, particularly in the realm of education.

Early Influences: Hale was influenced by the cultural nationalism of the post-Revolutionary period, which sought to establish a unique American literary and cultural identity. Her writing and editorial work were shaped by the prevailing sentiment of her era, which emphasized moral rectitude and piety. Moreover, the Romantic movement, with its emphasis on individual emotion and the beauty of the natural world, can also be seen reflected in Hale's poetry and fiction.

Poetic Schools or Movements: Hale's work cannot be easily classified into one poetic school or movement; rather, her writing bridged the neoclassical and Romantic styles. While she adhered to some neoclassical ideals such as order and rationality, her themes often embraced the Romantic idealization of nature and emotion.

Poetic Oeuvre: Phases and Themes:

*Domesticity and Women's Roles: Hale's work often centered on the idea of Republican Motherhood, which held that women played an essential role in shaping the moral fiber of the nation by educating and raising virtuous citizens. Her poem "The Good Housekeeper" is a prime example, where she lays out the virtues and responsibilities of a woman in her domestic sphere.

*Education: A strong proponent of women's education, Hale used her writings to argue for expanded educational opportunities for women. This theme is prevalent in many of her poems and her novel "Northwood," where she emphasizes education as a means of liberation and progress for women.

*Patriotism and National Identity: Hale's poetry often reflected a deep sense of American national identity and pride. She contributed to the construction of an American cultural heritage through her poems, which celebrated American landscapes, historical events, and figures.

*Religion and Morality: Hale's work is imbued with a strong sense of Christian morality. She saw religious faith as a cornerstone of personal and national virtue. This theme is woven throughout her poetry, reflecting the prevailing belief that piety was central to the American character.

*Social Reforms: Hale often addressed social issues and advocated for reforms through her writings. She was not just a passive observer but an active participant in the discussions about slavery, advocating for a gradual approach to abolition and promoting the idea of Liberia as a colony for African Americans.

*Thanksgiving and National Unity: Perhaps one of Hale's most enduring legacies is her campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday, which she saw as an opportunity for unity and reflection across the United States. Her writings on the subject contribute to the theme of unity and the importance of family and gratitude.

*Sentimentality and Virtue: Many of Hale's poems fit into the genre of sentimental literature, which was designed to elicit an emotional response and promote virtuous behavior. Her work often encourages empathy and underscores the importance of kindness and moral rectitude.

Influence: Hale's influence extended beyond literature. She is credited with making Thanksgiving a national holiday, following a persistent campaign that included letters to five Presidents. Her vision of the holiday as a unifying national celebration continues to be influential. Moreover, she played a crucial role in the establishment of Vassar College, one of the first higher education institutions for women in the United States.

Honors: While there were no formal literary honors akin to those of today during Hale's lifetime, her recognition came in the form of widespread respect and influence. Her editorship of "Godey's Lady's Book" made her one of the most read and influential women of her time. The Sarah Josepha Hale Award, established in her honor in 1956, is an American literary award.

Conclusion: Sarah Josepha Buell Hale's legacy is one of perseverance and advocacy through literature. She harnessed the power of the pen to advocate for women's education, national unity, and moral virtue, significantly impacting American culture. Her dedication to social reforms and the establishment of national traditions underscore her role as a pioneer in shaping the American literary and cultural landscape. Though her poetry may not be as widely remembered as her advocacy and editorial influence, the themes she explored continue to resonate as part of the American narrative, reflecting a period of burgeoning national identity and cultural formation.

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