The Gallows
The poem tells the story of a young woman who is sentenced to death for her role in a rebellion against an oppressive government. The speaker reflects on the cruelty and injustice of the punishment, and the ways in which it serves only to perpetuate suffering and violence. The poem explores themes of oppression, resistance, and the human cost of conflict.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1863 · Genre: Poetry, Social Critique, Religious Commentary · 968 words
First lines
Written on reading pamphlets published by clergymen against the abolition of the gallows.
I. THE suns of eighteen centuries have shone Since the Redeemer walked with man, and made The fisher's boat, the cavern's floor of stone, And mountain moss, a pillow for His head; And He, who wandered with the peasant Jew, And broke with publicans the bread of shame, And drank with blessings, in His Father's name, The water which Samaria's outcast drew, Hath now His temples upon every shore, Altar and shrine and priest; and incense dim Evermore rising, with low prayer and hymn, From lips which press the temple's marble floor, Or kiss the gilded sign of the dread cross He bore.
What this Textopian page supports
The Gallows is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1863 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: 1863 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Critique, Religious Commentary, Historical Reflection, Philosophical
- Length: 968 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Sentence Of John L Brown by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Prisoners Of Naples by John Greenleaf Whittier
- He Had Not Where To Lay His Head by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Rendition by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Burdens Of All by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Dedication Poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Social Critique — It critiques societal norms and practices, particularly regarding justice and morality.
- Religious Commentary — It addresses themes of religion, morality, and the misuse of religious teachings.
- Historical Reflection — It reflects on historical events and their moral implications.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Gallows · Execution · Death Penalty · Social Justice · Slavery · Abolitionism · Free Verse · Ballad Form · Narrative Poetry