Summary

Wheatley begins by stating that it was "mercy" that brought her from Africa, where Christianity was not practiced, to America, where she became a Christian (1). She expresses gratitude for her knowledge of God and Christ, as previously she did not even know enough to seek this knowledge. The poem then pivots to address the "scornful" way many white Christians view Black people (4). Wheatley asserts that Black people are not "diabolic," but just as capable of spiritual refinement and enlightenment in Christ as anyone else (5).

Analysis

“On Being Brought from Africa to America” is often read as an appeal for white people to see the humanity of Black people at a time when slavery was widespread in America. Because Phillis Wheatley was the first African American to publish a book of poetry and was herself enslaved when she wrote this poem, Wheatley was writing mainly...