What would you say…

1. What would you say… About the poet who wrote these lines? Celestial choir! enthron'd in realms of light, Columbia's scenes of glorious toils I write. While freedom's cause her anxious breast alarms, She flashes dreadful in refulgent arms.

2. Would you say?? • That the poets original writings recently sold for over $120,000? • That the poet wrote for and presented poetry for dignitaries including the first president, George Washington? • That the poet was considered privileged among her people? • That the poet was an African slave sold in Boston Harbor in 1761?

3. The Truth is… • The poet, Phillis Wheatley was all these things! • An original letter of Wheatley’s did sell in a New York City Auction for $120,000 • Phillis Wheatley was an African slave, born in the West African nation of Senegal and purchased by John Wheatley in Boston in 1761 • She was considered “privileged” for slaves of her time • She did present poetry for dignitaries

4. A Brief Biography on Phillis Wheatley • Born in 1753 in Senegal • When she was 7 years old, John Wheatley purchased her in Boston; she was to be the personal servant to his wife • The Wheatley’s educated her, a privilege unusual for a slave • She quickly mastered English and went on to learn Greek and Latin • She alluded Boston scholars by translating the classic, Ovid • Her style was influenced by neoclassical writers, including Alexander Pope

5. Today • She is still considered an influential African poet • It is debated how much her poetic “voice” demonstrates the African experience • She is celebrated • But some debate whether she accurately represents the voice of an African slave in the 18th century

6. As you read • Examine her language • Examine her use of allusion and imagery • Examine her choice of topics • Determine whether you think she accurately represents the voice of a slave