Phillis Wheatley: A Journey of Poetry and Freedom

Phillis Wheatley, an enslaved African-American poet, gained fame in colonial America for her literary works. Despite facing criticism, her poetry, which often included religious and classical themes, captivated audiences in both the US and England. Wheatley's work subtly critiqued slavery and supported American independence. After gaining her freedom, she continued to write, though her later life was marked by personal tragedies. Her legacy endures as a testament to her creative and intellectual contributions.

Who was the author of the poem sent to General George Washington in 1775?

• George Whitefield

• Thomas Jefferson

• A young Black woman named Phillis Wheatley

• An aristocratic admirer

What significant achievement did Phillis Wheatley accomplish in 1773?

• She was freed from slavery

• She wrote a poem for Thomas Jefferson

• She traveled to France

• She became the first African-American woman to publish a book of poetry

How did some critics view Phillis Wheatley's work?

• As a direct critique of slavery

• As groundbreaking and original

• As a poor imitation of another poet

• As purely religious texts

What was one of the reasons Phillis Wheatley supported American independence?

• Her desire to return to Africa

• Her early experiences of being kidnapped into slavery

• Her belief in the British monarchy

• Her admiration for George Washington

What condition is believed to have been part of Phillis Wheatley's return from London?

• A financial settlement

• A marriage proposal

• A promise to publish more poetry

• Her emancipation from slavery

What happened to Phillis Wheatley's proposal for a second book?

• It was never published

• It became a bestseller

• It was published posthumously

• It was lost in a fire

What is known about Phillis Wheatley's children?

• They were adopted by the Wheatleys

• They moved to England

• They became famous poets

• All of them died in infancy

Despite her fame, what aspect of Phillis Wheatley's life remains largely unknown?

• Her personal account of her life

• Her travels in Africa

• Her favorite poem

• Her relationship with George Washington

What does Phillis Wheatley's poetry continue to offer today?

• Political manifestos

• Detailed accounts of her life

• Scientific theories

• Creative growth and spiritual sustenance

What is a significant challenge in understanding Phillis Wheatley's full story?

• The language barrier

• The lack of interest in her work

• The complexity of her poetry

• The loss of much of her personal history