Criticism / Part 4 from The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier, Volume VII

Name: Criticism / Part 4 from The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier, Volume VII
Author: John Greenleaf Whittier

By John Greenleaf Whittier

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Essays, Letters & Speeches

About This Book

A set of critical essays and reviews that examine contemporary poetry, poetic form, and cultural themes. One essay reviews a long narrative poem of forced displacement, praising its vivid American scenes, humane character portraits, and the pros and cons of hexameter as a narrative measure. Other pieces survey northern and Norse verse, describing its rugged heroic motifs and arguing that Christian influence tempered earlier ferocity. The volume also introduces and comments on related lyrical pieces and translations, using close readings to illustrate broader points about imagination, style, and moral tone in modern verse.

About the Author

John Greenleaf Whittier

John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892) was an American poet and advocate for social reform, particularly known for his strong anti-slavery stance. A prominent figure in the abolitionist movement, Whittier's poetry often reflected his deep commitment to social justice and moral integrity. His notable works include "Barbara Frietchie," which celebrates courage in the face of oppression, and the collection "Anti-Slavery Poems," which articulates the struggles and injustices faced by enslaved individuals. Whittier's lyrical style and passionate themes contributed significantly to American literature and the cultural discourse surrounding civil rights in the 19th century.