On Being Brought from Africa to America

"To the University of Cambridge, in New England" by Phillis Wheatley (1773)

Wheatley’s passion for education is evident in this poem, which is addressed to the University of Cambridge. The poem elevates academic pursuits to the divine, suggesting that higher learning is morally virtuous for the soul. There exists an element of sadness within the text: Wheatley, implores Cambridge students to value their educations, as it is clear that she longs for the opportunity herself—an opportunity she would never be afforded.

"To the Right Honorable William, Earl of Dartmouth" by Phillis Wheatley (1773)

This poem, written by Wheatley to praise the leadership and politics of the Earl of Dartmouth, addresses themes similar to “On Being Brought from Africa to America.” Concepts of freedom, oppression, and racial injustice are central. Wheatley expresses hopefulness regarding the Earl’s position of power and even relates him to Christ, believing he will help eradicate slavery in America.

"An Address to Miss Phillis Wheatley" by Jupiter Hammon (1778)

Jupiter Hammon, a contemporary of Wheatley’s, also wrote and published poems. Like Wheatley, Hammon was an educated enslaved person writing about slavery. A well-respected preacher and devout Christian, Hammon worried that Wheatley’s writing had become too pagan influenced.