Mithridates at Chios
The poem tells the story of Mithridates, a king who has been defeated and is now on his way to execution. He reflects on his life and the events that led him to this point. The poem explores themes of power, ambition, and the fleeting nature of human achievement.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1861 · Genre: Historical Poetry, Tragedy, Political Commentary · 368 words
First lines
It is recorded that the Chians, when subjugated by Mithridates of Cappadocia, were delivered up to their own slaves, to be carried away captive to Colchis. Athenxus considers this a just punishment for their wickedness in first introducing the slave-trade into Greece. From this ancient villany of the Chians the proverb arose, "The Chian hath bought himself a master. "
KNOW'ST thou, O slave-cursed land How, when the Chian's cup of guilt Was full to overflow, there came God's justice in the sword of flame That, red with slaughter to its hilt, Blazed in the Cappadocian victor's hand?
What this Textopian page supports
Mithridates at Chios is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1861 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: 1861 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Poetry, Tragedy, Political Commentary, Epic, Lyric Poetry
- Length: 368 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Similar titles
- When Caesar Fell by Edna St Vincent Millay
- The Prophecy Of Capys by Thomas Babington Macaulay
- A Force In Gaul by Hilaire Belloc
- Agrippina by Thomas Gray
- On The Day Of The Destruction Of Jerusalem By Titus by Lord Byron
- The Conquest by Lord Byron
Genres
- Historical Poetry — The work reflects on historical events and figures, using poetic form to convey themes of justice and retribution.
- Tragedy — The themes of suffering, punishment, and the consequences of moral failings align with tragic elements.
- Political Commentary — The poem critiques the social and political dynamics of slavery and power, offering insights into justice and morality.
- Epic — The grand themes and historical scope suggest an epic quality, focusing on significant events and their impact.
Tags
Ancient History · Historical Fiction · Poetry · Epic Poetry · Greek Mythology · Roman Empire · War Story · Battle Scene · Military Campaign · Leadership · Strategy · Tactics