The Moral Warfare
This poem explores the idea that war is a moral failing and that those who engage in it are morally corrupt. It argues that true strength lies not in military power but in moral character. The speaker critiques the notion of patriotism and national pride, suggesting that these sentiments can be used to justify violence and aggression.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1837 · Genre: Poetry, Political Literature, Philosophical Literature · 188 words
First lines
WHEN Freedom, on her natal day, Within her war-rocked cradle lay, An iron race around her stood, Baptized her infant brow in blood; And, through the storm which round her swept, Their constant ward and watching kept.
Then, where our quiet herds repose, The roar of baleful battle rose, And brethren of a common tongue To mortal strife as tigers sprung, And every gift on Freedom's shrine Was man for beast, and blood for wine!
Our fathers to their graves have gone; Their strife is past, their triumph won; But sterner trials wait the race Which rises in their honored place; A moral warfare with the crime And folly of an evil time.
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The Moral Warfare is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1837 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: 1837 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political Literature, Philosophical Literature, Historical Literature, Religious Literature
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Political Literature — It addresses themes of freedom, conflict, and moral struggles within a societal context.
- Philosophical Literature — The text explores moral and ethical dilemmas, reflecting on the nature of good and evil.
- Historical Literature — It references historical events and figures related to the struggle for freedom.
Tags
American Literature · Poetry Collection · Moral Themes · Social Commentary · 19th Century Writing · Free Verse · Patriotism · War and Peace · National Identity · Ethics · Morality · Society Critique