The Female Martyr
This poem tells the story of a woman who has been wronged and seeks revenge against her oppressor. She is driven by a desire for justice and is willing to sacrifice herself in order to achieve it. The poem explores themes of morality, justice, and the complexities of human nature.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1828 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Historical · 763 words
First lines
Mary G -- -- -, aged eighteen, a "Sister of Charity," died in one of our Atlantic cities, during the prevalence of the Indian cholera, while in voluntary attendance upon the sick.
"BRING out your dead! " The midnight street Heard and gave back the hoarse, low call; Harsh fell the tread of hasty feet, Glanced through the dark the coarse white sheet, Her coffin and her pall. "What -- only one! " the brutal hack-man said, As, with an oath, he spurned away the dead.
What this Textopian page supports
The Female Martyr is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1828 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: 1828 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Historical, Inspirational, Social Commentary
- Length: 763 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Religious — Themes of martyrdom, sacrifice, and divine love are central to the text.
- Historical — The context of the cholera epidemic and its impact on society is significant.
- Inspirational — The poem aims to uplift and honor the selfless acts of the protagonist.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry · 19th Century · Feminism · Social Justice · Martyrdom · Sacrifice · Love · Patriotism · Nationalism · Romanticism · Symbolism