# Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral explained — Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral

> Chapter companion for Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral by Phillis Wheatley.

## What happens

This chapter presents a collection of poems by Phillis Wheatley, exploring themes of Christian redemption, classical and biblical allusions, and the moral and spiritual journey from enslavement to salvation. The poems reflect on divine providence, virtue, and the afterlife, often drawing on classical mythology and biblical narratives to convey moral guidance and consolation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Christian Redemption and Salvation

The poems consistently emphasize the possibility of spiritual salvation through Christian faith, often contrasting earthly suffering with heavenly reward.

### Classical and Biblical Allusion

Wheatley frequently references classical mythology (e.g., Apollo, Niobe) and biblical stories (e.g., David and Goliath) to enrich her moral and spiritual themes.

## Character check-ins

### Phillis Wheatley

The author and central figure of the poems, reflecting on her own spiritual and intellectual journey.

### Jesus

Central figure in the Christian themes of redemption and salvation referenced throughout the poems.

### George Whitefield

Mentioned in the context of his death and the elegy written in his honor.

### Apollo

Classical figure invoked in the poems, representing divine inspiration and artistic patronage.

## Key lines

> On being brought from Africa to America

Reflecting on her journey from Africa to America, Wheatley acknowledges the mercy of God in bringing her to Christianity.

_This poem directly addresses the theme of Christian redemption and the transformation from 'pagan' to 'Christian'._

> Remember, Christians, Negros, black as Cain, / May be refin'd, and join th' angelic train.

Wheatley reminds Christian readers that even those of African descent, often stigmatized, can achieve spiritual refinement and salvation.

_A powerful statement on race and identity within the context of Christian universalism._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters/poems-on-various-subjects-religious-and-moral
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poems_on_various_subjects_religious_and_moral_se/chapters