An Epistle by Emma Lazarus (1887)
The poem is a sonnet that explores the theme of giving refuge to those seeking asylum. It argues that the US should open its doors to oppressed people and provide them with a safe haven. The poem also touches on the idea that the US was founded by immigrants and that it has a moral obligation to continue this tradition.
By Emma Lazarus · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Religious Literature, Historical Fiction · 3,443 words
First lines
From Joshua Ibn Vives of Allorqui to his Former Master, Solomon Levi-Paul, de Santa-Maria, Bishop of Cartegna Chancellor of Castile, and Privy Councillor to King Henry III. of Spain.
[In this poem I have done little more than elaborate and versify the account given in Graetz's History of the Jews (Vol. VIII., page 77), of an Epistle actually written in the beginning of the 15th century by Joshua ben Joseph Ibn Vives to Paulus de Santa Maria -- E. L.]
What this Textopian page supports
An Epistle is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emma Lazarus, dated 1887 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emma Lazarus
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious Literature, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Literature, Epistolary
- Length: 3,443 words
- Structure: 1 section, 36 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Epistle by Emma Lazarus
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Response by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Requital by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Poetry — The work is a poem that employs lyrical language and structured verse to convey its themes.
- Religious Literature — The poem explores themes of faith, doubt, and the relationship between Judaism and Christianity.
- Historical Fiction — The poem references historical figures and events, particularly relating to Jewish history in Spain.
- Philosophical Literature — The poem engages with deep philosophical questions about faith, truth, and existence.
Tags
Poetry · 19th Century · American Literature · Epistolary · Free Verse · Social Commentary · Immigration · Refugees · Human Rights · Political · Historical · Cultural Identity