America S First Published African American Poet, Philis Wheatley, Born in Senegal, Was

America’s first published African American poet, Phillis Wheatley, born in Senegal, was sold into slavery to John and Susannah Wheatley of Boston around 1760.

At an early age, Phillis displayed remarkable talents and published her first poem in 1770 when she was just 17 years old. Three years later, a volume of her poetry was published in London and Wheatley became a sensation.

Wheatley’s poetry dealt with the themes of politics, religion and slavery – her first published piece was a eulogy to the evangelical preacher George Whitefield. But, she was also a patriot and admirer of George Washington, about whom she wrote the poem To His Excellency, General Washington.

Wheatley died in 1784 at the age of 31. 1. From the notes, which of the three themes does this poem address?

2. Explain TWO of the examples of personification found in the poem (see attached sheet)? Why do you think she uses personification?

3. Check Comprehension 1-3 and Interpret 2