The Crucifixion
The poem describes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ from a human perspective, focusing on the physical and emotional suffering he endured. It portrays the event as a brutal and senseless act of violence, with the speaker expressing outrage and disgust at the cruelty inflicted upon an innocent man. The poem also touches on themes of faith, redemption, and the moral implications of such an event.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1860 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Narrative Poetry · 360 words
First lines
Sunlight upon Judha's hills! And on the waves of Galilee; On Jordan's stream, and on the rills That feed the dead and sleeping sea! Most freshly from the green wood springs The light breeze on its scented wings; And gayly quiver in the sun The cedar tops of Lebanon!
A few more hours, -- a change hath come! The sky is dark without a cloud! The shouts of wrath and joy are dumb, And proud knees unto earth are bowed. A change is on the hill of Death, The helmed watchers pant for breath, And turn with wild and maniac eyes From the dark scene of sacrifice!
What this Textopian page supports
The Crucifixion is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1860 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: 1860 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Historical Poetry, Spiritual Reflection
- Length: 360 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Crucifixion by John Greenleaf Whittier
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and divine suffering, central to religious narratives.
- Lyrical Poetry — The use of vivid imagery and emotional expression aligns with the characteristics of lyrical poetry.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story of a significant event, incorporating elements of narrative structure.
- Historical Poetry — The poem reflects on a historical and religious event, providing a context that ties to historical themes.
Tags
Poetry · Religious · Christianity · Mortality · Death · Grief · Loss · Sacrifice · Faith · Hope · Resurrection · Symbolism