The Supreme Sacrifice by Emma Lazarus
The poem explores the idea of sacrifice for one's country and the importance of freedom. It describes a mother's willingness to give up her son for the sake of the nation's independence. The poem also touches on the theme of patriotism and the cost of war.
By Emma Lazarus · First published 1882 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Historical Poetry, Patriotic Poetry · 171 words
First lines
Well-nigh two thousand years hath Israel / Suffered the scorn of man for love of God; / Endured the outlaw's ban, the yoke, the rod, / With perfect patience. Empires rose and fell, / Around him Nebo was adored and Bel; / Edom was drunk with victory, and trod / On his high places, while the sacred sod / Was desecrated by the infidel. / His faith proved steadfast, without breach or flaw, / But now the last renouncement is required. / His truth prevails, his God is God, his Law / Is found the wisdom most to be desired. / Not his the glory! He, maligned, misknown, / Bows his meek head, and says, "Thy will be done! "
Similar titles
- Bless God He Went As Soldiers by Emily Dickinson
- The Vaudois Teacher by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Crucifixion by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Decoration Day by James Mcintyre
- Uncalled by Madison Cawein
- After The Battles Are Over by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to God, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Historical Poetry — It reflects on the historical suffering of the Jewish people, connecting their past to their faith.
- Patriotic Poetry — The work embodies a sense of national identity and pride, particularly in the context of Jewish heritage.
- Lyric Poetry — The personal expression of emotion and reflection on spiritual themes aligns with the characteristics of lyric poetry.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Jewish Heritage · Spirituality · Martyrdom · Religious Persecution · Historical Events · Tragedy · Loss · Grief · Sorrow
What this Textopian page supports
The Supreme Sacrifice is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emma Lazarus, dated 1882 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: 1882 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Historical Poetry, Patriotic Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 171 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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