Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral · Chapter
On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield. 1770 explained
An elegy mourning the death of Reverend George Whitefield, celebrating his saintly life, powerful preaching, and selfless ministry.
What happens
An elegy mourning the death of Reverend George Whitefield, celebrating his saintly life, powerful preaching, and selfless ministry. The poem depicts his ascent to heaven, his prayers for America and Africans, and calls for readers to find comfort in his eternal reward.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This poem serves as the narrative climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak where the sp…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Christian Redemption and Salvation
Central theme of the poem: Whitefield offers Jesus as the 'only good' and 'life-giving stream,' promising redemption and divine sonship to all believers.
- Death and the Afterlife
Whitefield's death is portrayed as a triumphant ascent to an immortal throne in heaven, with the tomb holding his dust until resurrection.
- Grief and Consolation
The poem expresses communal grief over Whitefield's loss but offers consolation through the vision of his eternal glory and the hope of reunion.
Characters to notice
- George Whitefield
The deceased reverend, celebrated for his eloquence, devotion, and missionary work in America and among Africans.
- Phillis Wheatley
The poet, speaking as 'we' and 'Americans' to mourn Whitefield's death and honor his legacy.
- Jesus
Referenced as the 'Impartial Saviour' offered to all, including Africans, and as the source of redeeming blood.
Key passages
“Hail, happy saint, on thine immortal throne, Possest of glory, life, and bliss unknown”
Greetings, blessed saint, now seated on your eternal throne, filled with glory, life, and unimaginable joy.
Opens the elegy by celebrating Whitefield's heavenly reward.
“Take him, ye Africans, he longs for you, Impartial Saviour is his title due: Wash’d in the fountain of redeeming blood, You shall be sons, and kings, and priests to God.”
Accept him, Africans, for he desires your salvation; the Savior is truly impartial. Cleansed by his redeeming blood, you will become children of God, rulers, and priests.
Highlights Whitefield's inclusive gospel message and the promise of spiritual equality.
