To the University of Cambridge, in New-England
The poem is a tribute to the university and its founder, Isaac Greenwood. It describes the institution's beauty and significance, highlighting its role in educating young men for leadership roles. The speaker expresses admiration for the university's commitment to knowledge and virtue. The tone is formal and celebratory, with a focus on the university's potential to shape the future of America.
By Phillis Wheatley · First published 1737 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational · 321 words
First lines
While an intrinsic ardor prompts to write, The muses promise to assist my pen; 'Twas not long since I left my native shore
The land of errors, and Egyptian gloom: Father of mercy, 'twas thy gracious hand
What this Textopian page supports
To the University of Cambridge, in New-England is listed on Textopian as a poem by Phillis Wheatley, dated 1737 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Phillis Wheatley
- Date: 1737 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational, Didactic, Historical
- Length: 321 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Religious — The themes revolve around faith, redemption, and divine mercy.
- Inspirational — The text encourages students to pursue knowledge and moral integrity.
- Didactic — It aims to teach moral lessons and promote virtuous behavior.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Colonial Era · African American Writing · Epistolary Form · Letter to an Institution · Education · Academia · Cambridge University · New England · 18th Century · Slavery and Freedom
More by Phillis Wheatley
- To Maecenas (1733)
- On Virtue (1773)
- To the King's most Excellent Majesty. 1768 (1773)
- On being Brought from Africa to America (1773)
- On the Death of the Rev. Dr. Sewell. 1769 (1773)
- On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield. 1770 (1770)
- On the Death of a Young Lady of Five Years of Age (1773)
- On the Death of a Young Gentleman (1773)
- All works by Phillis Wheatley