Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral · Chapter
XI explained
The speaker expresses a willingness to leave New England for Britannia, finding joy in the prospect of seeing her divine charms again.
What happens
The speaker expresses a willingness to leave New England for Britannia, finding joy in the prospect of seeing her divine charms again.
Themes in this chapter
Freedom and Enslavement
The act of resigning New England's fields for Britannia may imply a choice or constraint related to freedom and allegiance.
Characters to notice
- Britannia
The speaker addresses Britannia directly, resigning New England's fields for her.
- Unknown Narrator
The speaker expresses personal joy and resignation for Britannia.
Key passages
“For thee, Britannia, I resign New-England’s smiling fields; To view again her charms divine, What joy the prospect yields!”
For you, Britannia, I give up the pleasant landscapes of New England; the thought of seeing your divine beauty again brings me great happiness.
The speaker expresses a joyful sacrifice for the sake of Britannia.