Derne by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem Derne is a narrative about a young woman who is forced into marriage with an older man named Derne. The speaker describes the woman's beauty and youth, contrasting it with her husband's age and ugliness. The poem explores themes of love, duty, and the societal pressures that can lead to unhappy marriages.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Historical Poetry, Patriotic Literature, Narrative Poetry · 1,016 words
First lines
The storming of the city of Derne, in 1805, by General Eaton, at the head of nine Americans, forty Greeks, and a motley array of Turks and Arabs, was one of those feats of hardihood and daring which have in all ages attracted the admiration of the multitude. The higher and holier heroism of Christian self-denial and sacrifice, in the humble walks of private duty, is seldom so well appreciated.
What this Textopian page supports
Derne is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1827 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: 1827 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Poetry, Patriotic Literature, Narrative Poetry, Social Commentary, Romanticism
- Length: 1,016 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Derne 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 Derne?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Historical Poetry — The work recounts a historical event, blending narrative and poetic elements to reflect on themes of heroism and sacrifice.
- Patriotic Literature — It emphasizes themes of freedom and valor, celebrating the actions of individuals fighting for liberty.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story through its verses, depicting a dramatic historical moment with vivid imagery.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal issues such as slavery and the moral implications of freedom and self-denial.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Free Verse · Nature Poetry · Romanticism · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Simile · Alliteration · Assonance