The Quaker of the Olden Time
This poem portrays a Quaker's life and values during the 17th century. It describes his simple living, hard work, and commitment to his faith. The speaker reflects on the Quaker's integrity, honesty, and compassion, highlighting his role in the community as a mediator and peacemaker.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1831 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Historical Poetry · 218 words
First lines
THE Quaker of the olden time! How calm and firm and true, Unspotted by its wrong and crime, He walked the dark earth through. The lust of power, the love of gain, The thousand lures of sin Around him, had no power to stain The purity within.
With that deep insight which detects All great things in the small, And knows how each man's life affects The spiritual life of all, He walked by faith and not by sight, By love and not by law; The presence of the wrong or right He rather felt than saw.
What this Textopian page supports
The Quaker of the Olden Time is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1831 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: 1831 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Historical Poetry, Philosophical Poetry, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 218 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of faith, morality, and spiritual integrity, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, typical of lyric poetry.
- Historical Poetry — It reflects on the values and beliefs of a past era, connecting historical context with moral lessons.
- Philosophical Poetry — The poem delves into philosophical themes regarding morality, choice, and the nature of good and evil.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Quakerism · American Literature · 19th Century · Poetic Prose · Autobiographical Elements · Biographical Fiction · Social Commentary · Moral Allegory · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Spiritual Quest