Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley (Her birth name in Africa is unknown)

Poet

Born: May 8, 1753, West Africa

Died: December 5, 1784, in Boston, Massachusetts, United States.

Nationality: American

Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753-1784) was an African-American poet and a trailblazer in the realm of American literature. Her remarkable talent and extraordinary achievements set her apart as a literary pioneer in a time when African-Americans were widely marginalized and denied the opportunities for intellectual and creative expression. Through her eloquent verse and her courageous pursuit of education, Wheatley left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, defying the constraints imposed upon her by society. This encyclopedia entry explores the extraordinary life and accomplishments of Phillis Wheatley.

Early Life and Enslavement:

Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa, most likely in present-day Senegal or Gambia. In 1761, at the age of about eight, she was kidnapped and transported to Boston, Massachusetts, where she was sold into slavery to the Wheatley family. Susanna Wheatley, the wife of John Wheatley, recognized Phillis's intellect and aptitude for learning and began to educate her alongside her own children.

Literary Achievements:

Phillis Wheatley's literary prowess blossomed at an astonishingly young age. By the time she was 13, she had already composed several accomplished poems. Wheatley's talent captured the attention of prominent figures of the time, including John Wheatley's friends, who recognized her exceptional ability. She became the first African-American and one of the first women in the American colonies to publish a book of poetry.

Her groundbreaking work, "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," was published in London in 1773, making her one of the first African-American authors to have a book published. This collection of poetry showcased her command of various poetic forms, including elegies, odes, and heroic couplets. Wheatley's poetry often explored themes of Christianity, morality, and the struggle for freedom.

Intellectual and Literary Legacy:

Phillis Wheatley's accomplishments were extraordinary not only because of her race but also because she achieved them during a time when enslaved individuals were systematically denied access to education and intellectual pursuits. Her work defied prevailing stereotypes that African-Americans were intellectually inferior and incapable of artistic expression.

Wheatley's success opened doors for future African-American writers and contributed to the development of African-American literature. Her poetry inspired and influenced later generations of writers, including abolitionists and civil rights activists. Wheatley's poetic voice demonstrated the power of the written word in advocating for justice and equality.

Legacy and Recognition:

Despite her remarkable achievements, Wheatley's life was marked by tragedy and hardship. She faced significant financial difficulties and struggled to gain recognition and support for her work. After being freed from slavery following her master's death, Wheatley married John Peters, a free black man, but their union also encountered numerous challenges.

Despite the adversity she faced, Phillis Wheatley's contributions were not forgotten. Her poetry was celebrated by influential figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, who praised her talents and advocated for her work. In recognition of her exceptional accomplishments, Wheatley met with prominent figures in England, including the Lord Mayor of London, and her poetry received critical acclaim both in Europe and the United States.

Conclusion:

Phillis Wheatley's extraordinary life and literary achievements have secured her place as an influential figure in American literature. Her ability to overcome the limitations imposed upon her by slavery and her dedication to her craft paved the way for future African-American writers and intellectuals. Wheatley's legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the enduring impact of art in challenging societal norms.

Phillis Wheatley for Children

Phillis Wheatley was an amazing African-American poet who lived a long time ago. She was born in Africa but was kidnapped and brought to America when she was just a little girl. She became a slave and was owned by a family called the Wheatleys. But something special happened - the wife of the Wheatley family saw that Phillis was really smart and had a love for learning. So, she decided to teach Phillis how to read and write.

Phillis Wheatley was so talented that by the time she was 13 years old, she was already writing incredible poems. Her poetry was so good that people all around started noticing her. She became the first African-American to publish a book of poetry in America! Her book was called "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral." It was a big deal because she was showing everyone that African-Americans could be talented writers and have important things to say.

Phillis Wheatley's poems often talked about religion, being a good person, and the fight for freedom. She used beautiful words and rhymes to express her ideas. Even though she lived during a time when African-Americans were treated unfairly, she never let that stop her from using her voice. Her writing inspired many people, including famous leaders like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

Phillis Wheatley's life was not easy. She faced many challenges and struggled with money. But her poems and her courage live on. She showed the world that no matter who you are or where you come from, you can use your talents and make a difference. Phillis Wheatley's legacy reminds us to never give up on our dreams and to believe in ourselves.

Some Phillis Wheatley Quotes Explained

"Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land, / Taught my benighted soul to understand / That there's a God, that there's a Saviour too."

In this quote, Wheatley expresses gratitude for being brought from her homeland in Africa to America. She acknowledges that it was a merciful act that led her to learn about Christianity and understand the existence of God and Jesus Christ. It reflects her deep faith and appreciation for the opportunities that her new life in America presented to her.

"Some view our sable race with scornful eye, / 'Their colour is a diabolic dye.'"

In this quote, Wheatley addresses the prejudice and discrimination faced by African-Americans. She highlights the negative perception some people had towards people of African descent, using the phrase "sable race" to refer to black people. The quote implies that such prejudice is based on ignorance and unfounded beliefs, and she challenges the idea that the color of one's skin determines their worth or morality.

"But how presumptuous shall we hope to find / Divine acceptance with the Almighty mind / While yet o deed ungenerous they disgrace / And hold in bondage Afric: blameless race."

This quote speaks directly about the injustice of slavery. Wheatley questions how anyone can expect to be accepted by God while simultaneously participating in or supporting the enslavement of African people. She calls out the hypocrisy of those who claim to be religious but engage in acts that are harmful and oppressive, particularly the bondage of Africans who are, in her eyes, an innocent and blameless race.

"In every human Breast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Love of Freedom; it is impatient of Oppression, and pants for Deliverance."

This quote emphasizes Wheatley's belief in the innate desire for freedom that exists within every human being. She asserts that God has placed a fundamental principle in the hearts of all people—the love of freedom. According to her, this principle resists and rejects any form of oppression, and longs for liberation. Wheatley sees the longing for freedom as a natural and universal aspect of humanity.

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