Woman by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1888)
The poem explores the theme of femininity and the role of women in society. It describes a woman's beauty, charm, and influence on those around her, but also touches on the limitations and restrictions placed on her by societal expectations. The speaker argues that a woman's true power lies not in her physical appearance, but in her inner strength, courage, and compassion.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1888 · Genre: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Inspirational · 757 words
First lines
Strange are the ways that her feet have trod Since first she was set in the path of duty, Finished and fair by the hand of God, To carry her message of love and beauty. Delicate creature of light and shade, She gleamed like an opal, on wide worlds under: And earth looked up to her half afraid, While heaven looked down at her, full of wonder.
Flame of the comet and mist of the moon, And ray of the sun all mingled in her. And the heart of her asked but a single boon- That love should seek her, and find her, and win her. She grasped the scope of the First Intent That made her kingdom _for her_, no other, And joyfully into her place she went- The primal mate, and the primal mother.
What this Textopian page supports
Woman is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1888 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Inspirational, Historical, Philosophical
- Length: 757 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Woman by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Woman?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Bridal Eve by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Sonnet by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Womanhood by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Songs Of Love And The Sea by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The New Love by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Poet To His Love by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery.
- Feminist Literature — The themes revolve around the evolution and empowerment of women.
- Inspirational — The work aims to inspire and uplift through its portrayal of women's progress and potential.
- Historical — References to historical events and figures, such as the Revolution and forefathers, are present.
Tags
Poetry · Feminism · Love · Relationships · Marriage · Motherhood · Society · Gender Roles · Equality · Rights · Empowerment · Independence