
James Russell Lowell
The poem portrays James Russell Lowell's life and career, highlighting his literary achievements and personal struggles. It describes his early education at Harvard, where he developed a passion for literature and poetry. The poem also touches on his relationships with other notable figures of the time, including Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1845 · Genre: Poetry, Biography, Social Commentary · 68 words
First lines
From purest wells of English undefiled None deeper drank than he, the New World's child, Who in the language of their farm-fields spoke The wit and wisdom of New England folk, Shaming a monstrous wrong. The world-wide laugh Provoked thereby might well have shaken half The walls of Slavery down, ere yet the ball And mine of battle overthrew them all.
What this Textopian page supports
James Russell Lowell is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1845 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: 1845 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Biography, Social Commentary, Historical Literature, Romanticism
- Length: 68 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for James Russell Lowell 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
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Biography — It reflects on the life and contributions of a specific individual, highlighting personal and historical significance.
- Social Commentary — The themes address societal issues, particularly the critique of slavery and moral responsibility.
- Historical Literature — It situates the subject within a specific historical context, reflecting the values and struggles of the time.
Tags
Biography · Poetry · Literary Criticism · American Literature · 19th Century · Memoir · Autobiographical · Friendship · Intellectual History · Cultural Commentary · Historical Context · Personal Narrative
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