Our Autocrat by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem describes a tyrannical ruler who has oppressed his people for years. The speaker reflects on the Autocrat's reign and notes that he has brought about widespread suffering and despair. Despite this, the Autocrat remains in power, and the people are too afraid to resist him. The poem is a commentary on the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of individual freedom.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1856 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Elegy · 320 words
First lines
Read at the breakfast given in honor of Dr. Holmes by the publishers of the Atlantic Monthly, December 3, 1879.
His laurels fresh from song and lay, Romance, art, science, rich in all, And young of heart, how dare we say We keep his seventieth festival?
What this Textopian page supports
Our Autocrat is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1856 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1856 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Elegy, Celebratory, Social Commentary
- Length: 320 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Our Autocrat by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter characteristic of poetry.
- Lyric — The text expresses personal emotions and reflections, typical of lyric poetry.
- Elegy — The themes of remembrance and tribute suggest an elegiac quality.
- Celebratory — The work honors an individual, reflecting a celebratory tone.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · Autobiographical Elements · Biographical Sketches · Historical Context · New England · Regionalism · Satire · Social Commentary · Politics · Government