The Cross by John Greenleaf Whittier
The poem explores the theme of sacrifice and redemption through the image of a cross. It describes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the symbolism of the cross as a symbol of love and forgiveness. The speaker reflects on the significance of the cross, highlighting its power to transform lives and bring people closer to God.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1827 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Social Justice, Historical · 194 words
First lines
Richard Dillingham, a young member of the Society of Friends, died in the Nashville penitentiary, where he was confined for the act of aiding the escape of fugitive slaves.
"The cross, if rightly borne, shall be No burden, but support to thee; " So, moved of old time for our sake, The holy monk of Kempen spake.
Thou brave and true one! upon whom Was laid the cross of martyrdom, How didst thou, in thy generous youth, Bear witness to this blessed truth!
Thy cross of suffering and of shame A staff within thy hands became, In paths where faith alone could see The Master's steps supporting thee.
What this Textopian page supports
The Cross 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: Religious Poetry, Social Justice, Historical, Inspirational, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 194 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Hymn by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Andrew Rykmans Prayer by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Triumph by Emily Dickinson
- The Crucifixion by James Weldon Johnson
- The Relic by John Greenleaf Whittier
- A Mortul Prayer by James Whitcomb Riley
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and martyrdom, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Social Justice — It addresses the moral implications of aiding fugitive slaves, highlighting social justice themes.
- Historical — The context of the narrative is rooted in a specific historical period concerning slavery and the Society of Friends.
- Inspirational — The poem aims to inspire through its themes of courage and faith in adversity.
Tags
Poetry · Religion · Christianity · Symbolism · Death · Mortality · Grief · Loss · Faith · Hope · Resurrection · Spirituality