At Washington
The poem describes a scene at the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolutionary War. It portrays the bravery and sacrifice of the American soldiers who fought against the British army. The speaker reflects on the significance of the battle, which was a pivotal moment in the war for independence. The poem also touches on the themes of patriotism, duty, and the cost of freedom.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Political · 1,650 words
First lines
Suggested by a visit to the city of Washington, in the 12th month of 1845.
WITH a cold and wintry noon-light On its roofs and steeples shed, Shadows weaving with the sunlight From the gray sky overhead, Broadly, vaguely, all around me, lies the half-built town outspread.
What this Textopian page supports
At Washington is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1863 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Political, Romanticism, Historical
- Length: 1,650 words
- Structure: 1 section, 29 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for At Washington by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering At Washington?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Social Commentary — The themes address social issues such as slavery, freedom, and moral responsibility.
- Political — The content reflects on political themes, particularly the state of society and governance in Washington.
- Romanticism — The work exhibits elements of Romanticism, focusing on emotion, nature, and individualism.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Social Commentary · Politics · Slavery · Abolitionism · Civil War Era · New England · Regionalism