By their Works
The poem explores the idea that a person's character can be judged by their actions and accomplishments rather than their words or claims of virtue. It argues that true greatness lies in what one achieves, not just in what they say about themselves. The speaker suggests that those who boast of their good deeds are often motivated by self-interest, while those who quietly work for the greater good are truly admirable.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1862 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Social Commentary · 97 words
First lines
Call him not heretic whose works attest His faith in goodness by no creed confessed. Whatever in love's name is truly done To free the bound and lift the fallen one Is done to Christ. Whoso in deed and word Is not against Him labors for our Lord. When He, who, sad and weary, longing sore For love's sweet service, sought the sisters' door, One saw the heavenly, one the human guest, But who shall say which loved the Master best? 1881.
What this Textopian page supports
By their Works is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1862 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: 1862 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, Social Commentary, Philosophical Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 97 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for By their Works by John Greenleaf Whittier
- 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
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering By their Works?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Fishers Of Men by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- To George B Cheever by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The New Exodus by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Disenthralled by John Greenleaf Whittier
- God Bless Our Native Land by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- For Righteousness Sake by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of faith, goodness, and the nature of true service to Christ, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Inspirational Literature — The poem aims to inspire readers to act with love and compassion, emphasizing the importance of deeds over creeds.
- Social Commentary — It addresses social issues such as helping the oppressed and the moral responsibilities of individuals.
- Philosophical Poetry — The text reflects on deeper philosophical questions about faith, love, and the essence of true belief.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Social Justice · Abolitionism · Slavery · Morality · Ethics · Christianity · Religion · Philosophy · Moralism