Phillis Wheatley

Definition

Phillis Wheatley was the first published African American female poet in the United States, whose work emerged in the 18th century. Her poetry often explored themes of freedom, religion, and the complexities of her identity as an enslaved woman, making significant literary contributions that challenged societal norms of her time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa around 1753 and was brought to America as an enslaved person when she was about seven or eight years old.
2. Her first book of poetry, 'Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral,' was published in 1773 when she was just 20 years old, making her the first African American to publish a book.
3. Wheatley's poetry often addressed themes of slavery and freedom, using her own experiences to reflect on the moral implications of enslavement.
4. She was well-educated by her owners, John and Susanna Wheatley, who recognized her talent for writing and encouraged her literary pursuits.
5. Despite her achievements, Wheatley faced skepticism about her intellectual abilities because of her race and gender, which highlights the struggles faced by Black women writers in America.

Review Questions

• How did Phillis Wheatley's experiences as an enslaved woman influence her literary works?
  • Phillis Wheatley's experiences as an enslaved woman profoundly shaped her poetry, which often grappled with themes of freedom, identity, and religion. Her status as an enslaved person provided her with a unique perspective on the moral dilemmas of slavery, allowing her to articulate the emotional weight of her circumstances through her writing. This connection between her personal experience and her poetic themes helped to elevate discussions around race and gender in literature.
• Discuss the significance of Phillis Wheatley's contributions to American literature during the 18th century.
  • Phillis Wheatley's contributions to American literature were groundbreaking as she became the first published African American female poet. Her work challenged prevailing notions about race and intellect during the 18th century, providing a counter-narrative to the racist beliefs that justified slavery. By publishing her poetry, Wheatley not only asserted her own voice but also opened doors for future generations of Black writers, making a lasting impact on American literary history.
• Evaluate how Phillis Wheatley's literary legacy has influenced contemporary discussions around race and gender in literature.
  • Phillis Wheatley's literary legacy has significantly influenced contemporary discussions around race and gender by highlighting the intersections of these identities in literature. Her pioneering role as an African American woman writer challenges modern audiences to consider the historical context of marginalized voices. Wheatley's work serves as a foundational example for contemporary Black women writers who continue to navigate similar struggles for recognition and respect within a predominantly white literary landscape, showcasing the enduring relevance of her contributions.

Related terms

Enslavement:

The condition of being owned by another person, where individuals are deprived of personal freedom and compelled to work for their owner.

Neoclassicism: An artistic and literary movement that drew inspiration from the classical art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing reason, clarity, and order in expression.

Abolitionism:

A movement to end the practice of slavery and promote the rights and freedoms of enslaved people, gaining momentum in the 18th and 19th centuries.