Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral is a poetry collection written by Phillis Wheatley, who was the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry. Released in 1773, the book is a significant historical and literary milestone. Wheatley’s poems touch on a variety of themes, including religion, morality, freedom, and slavery, often blending classical references with her own personal experiences and beliefs. Phillis Wheatley was born in West Africa, captured and enslaved as a child, and brought to the American colonies, where she was educated and began writing poetry. Her works reflect a deep Christian faith, a respect for classical literature, and often, an implicit critique of the institution of slavery. She famously addressed prominent figures of her time, including George Washington, in her poems.
