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.
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
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: Fairly Easy (7th 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