The Exiles
The poem tells the story of a group of Puritan exiles who are forced to flee their homes and settle in a new land. They face numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, disease, and conflicts with Native Americans. Despite these difficulties, they persevere and establish a thriving community. The poem explores themes of resilience, faith, and the struggle for survival in a hostile environment.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1826 · Genre: Historical Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Religious Poetry · 1,722 words
First lines
The incidents upon which the following ballad has its foundation about the year 1660. Thomas Macy was one of the first, if not the first white settler of Nantucket. The career of Macy is briefly but carefully outlined in James S. Pike's The New Puritan.
THE goodman sat beside his door One sultry afternoon, With his young wife singing at his side An old and goodly tune.
What this Textopian page supports
The Exiles is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1826 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: 1826 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Religious Poetry, Social Commentary, Romanticism
- Length: 1,722 words
- Structure: 1 section, 62 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Exiles by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Exiles?
- How does this poem by John Greenleaf Whittier fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Historical Poetry — The work is a ballad that recounts historical events and figures, focusing on themes of persecution and freedom.
- Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story with a clear plot and character development, typical of narrative poetry.
- Religious Poetry — The themes of conscience, faith, and moral struggle are central to the narrative, reflecting religious undertones.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques societal norms and the treatment of dissenters, highlighting issues of justice and morality.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · 19th Century · New England · Historical Fiction · Romance · Tragedy · Love Story · Family Drama · Social Commentary · Morality Tale · Coming of Age