Given in Marriage Unto Thee
The poem explores the theme of marriage and its societal expectations. It describes a union that is more of a business arrangement than a romantic partnership. The speaker suggests that marriage is often a transaction where one party gives up their freedom in exchange for security. The poem critiques the idea that women are commodities to be bought and sold, highlighting the lack of agency and autonomy they have in such arrangements.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1850 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Metaphysical Poetry, Lyric Poetry · 60 words
First lines
Given in marriage unto thee, Oh, thou celestial host!
Bride of the Father and the Son, Bride of the Holy Ghost!
Other betrothal shall dissolve, Wedlock of will decay; Only the keeper of this seal Conquers mortality.
What this Textopian page supports
Given in Marriage Unto Thee is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1850 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emily Dickinson
- Date: 1850 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Metaphysical Poetry, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 60 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem's themes revolve around spiritual marriage and divine union, referencing celestial and holy figures.
- Metaphysical Poetry — It explores abstract concepts such as immortality and spiritual betrothal, characteristic of metaphysical poetry.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal and emotional themes in a concise and musical form.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Marriage · Love · Relationships · Emotions · Intimacy · Commitment · Vows · Promise · Fidelity · Loyalty