On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield.

Name: On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield. 1770
Author: Phillis Wheatley

The poem is a tribute to the deceased Rev. Mr. Whitefield, an Anglican cleric who was a prominent figure in the Great Awakening movement. It expresses Wheatley's admiration for his character and her sorrow at his passing. The poem begins by describing Whitefield as a "pious Clergyman" whose death has caused widespread grief among his followers. Wheatley praises his virtues, including his compassion, humility, and dedication to his faith. She also highlights his role in spreading the Gospel and his influence on the lives of many people, particularly African Americans who were drawn to his message of salvation and redemption. Throughout the poem, Wheatley employs a formal, elegiac tone, characteristic of 18th-century mourning poetry. She uses metaphors and imagery to convey her emotions and to emphasize Whitefield's significance as a spiritual leader. The poem concludes with a reflection on the transience of human life and the inevitability of death, but also with a sense of hope and reassurance that Whitefield's legacy will live on through his teachings and the impact he had on those who knew him.

By Phillis Wheatley · First published 1770 · Genre: Elegy, Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry · 543 words

First lines

Hail, happy saint, on thine immortal throne, Possest of glory, life, and bliss unknown; We hear no more the music of thy tongue, Thy wonted auditories cease to throng.

Thy sermons in unequall'd accents flow'd, And ev'ry bosom with devotion glow'd; Thou didst in strains of eloquence refin'd

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On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield. 1770 is listed on Textopian as an essay by Phillis Wheatley, dated 1770 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Phillis Wheatley
Date: 1770 CE
Language: English
Genres: Elegy, Religious Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Tribute, Didactic Poetry
Length: 543 words
Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Elegy — The work mourns the death of a significant figure, expressing sorrow and reverence.
Religious Poetry — The poem reflects themes of faith, salvation, and the afterlife, central to religious discourse.
Lyric Poetry — The personal and emotional expression of grief and admiration characterizes the lyrical style.
Tribute — The poem serves as a tribute to the deceased, highlighting their impact and legacy.