Goliath of Gath explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Divine Providence and Nature

  David's victory is attributed to Jehovah's power, emphasizing divine intervention over human strength.

• Classical and Biblical Allusion

  The poem invokes the Muses and uses epic conventions to retell a biblical story, blending classical and scriptural elements.

• Virtue and Moral Guidance

  David's faith and courage serve as a moral example, contrasting with Goliath's pride and defiance.

Characters to notice

• Goliath of Gath

  The Philistine giant who challenges the Israelite army and is slain by David.

• David

  The young shepherd who defeats Goliath with a sling and stone, trusting in God.

• Eliab

  David's older brother who rebukes him for coming to the battlefield.

• Jesse

  David's father, mentioned as the father of the young hero.

• Israel

  The nation of Israel, depicted as fearful of Goliath's challenge.

• Philistia

  The Philistine army, which flees after Goliath's death.

Key passages

• “Ye martial pow’rs, and all ye tuneful nine, Inspire my song, and aid my high design.”

  O gods of war and Muses, help me write this epic poem.

  Wheatley invokes classical muses to begin her heroic narrative.

• “The God, who sav’d me from these beasts of prey, By me this monster in the dust shall lay.”

  The same God who rescued me from lions and bears will help me defeat this giant.

  David expresses his faith that God will grant him victory over Goliath.

• “To-day the Lord of Hosts to me will give Vict’ry, to-day thy doom thou shalt receive.”

  Today the Lord will give me victory, and you will meet your fate.

  David confidently declares his trust in God's deliverance.