The Changeling
A young woman's child is stolen and replaced with a changeling, a supernatural being that can mimic human appearance but lacks humanity. The story explores the mother's grief and her attempts to reclaim her child.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1857 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Folklore · 858 words
First lines
For the fairest maid in Hampton They needed not to search, Who saw young Anna Favor Come walking into church,
Or bringing from the meadows, At set of harvest-day, The frolic of the blackbirds, The sweetness of the hay.
What this Textopian page supports
The Changeling is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1857 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: 1857 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Folklore, Drama, Religious
- Length: 858 words
- Structure: 1 section, 28 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for The Changeling by John Greenleaf Whittier
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and emotional depth align with the Romantic movement.
- Folklore — The narrative incorporates elements of folklore, such as witches and changelings, reflecting cultural myths.
- Drama — The emotional conflict and character interactions create a dramatic tension throughout the piece.
Tags
Poetry · Narrative Poem · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Folklore · Mythology · Changeling Legend · Childhood Innocence · Coming of Age · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Allegory