Phyllis Wheatley: Life and Legacy

Phyllis Wheatley, the first African-American to publish a book of poetry, faced skepticism in colonial Boston. To prove her authorship, she underwent a rigorous examination by prominent men. Despite her challenges as a young, enslaved African girl, she demonstrated her talent and determination, eventually gaining recognition and freedom. Her legacy includes patriotic poems and a lasting impact on literature.

Who was the first African-American to publish a book of poetry?

• Zora Neale Hurston

• Phyllis Wheatley

• Maya Angelou

• Langston Hughes

In which year did Phyllis Wheatley's book almost not get published?

• 1771

• 1770

• 1772

• 1773

How many men examined Phyllis Wheatley to verify her authorship?

• 20

• 18

• 15

• 10

What did Phyllis Wheatley carry with her on the way to her examination?

• A map

• A book

• A sheaf of papers

• A letter

What was the name of the ship that brought Phyllis to America?

• Hope

• Phyllis

• Freedom

• Liberty

Which languages did Phyllis learn from the Wheatley twins?

• Latin and Greek

• German and Italian

• French and Spanish

• Portuguese and Dutch

What did Phyllis's mistress advise her to do during the examination?

• Avoid eye contact

• Look them straight in the eye

• Read from a script

• Speak softly

What was Phyllis's ultimate goal for her poetry?

• To write a novel

• To perform on stage

• To have her own book

• To win awards

What was the outcome of Phyllis Wheatley's examination?

• She failed

• She passed with flying colors

• It was inconclusive

• It was postponed