Question

What was the purpose of John Wheatley's letter to the publisher of Phillis Wheatley's poems?

A.to explain why no one should take the poems too seriously
B.o assure the world that Phillis was no longer a slave
C.to give credit for Phillis's accomplishments to his wife and himself
D.to explain how Phillis became an accomplished writer

Answer 1

John Wheatley's letter was to confirm Phillis Wheatley's authorship and intellect in the face of skepticism due to her being an African American slave.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of John Wheatley's letter to the publisher of Phillis Wheatley's poems was to authenticate Phillis's authorship and her intellectual and moral capabilities, which were frequently doubted because of her race and status as a slave. The publication of Phillis Wheatley's Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral was groundbreaking, as she was the first African American woman to have her writings published. Although her poems were subjected to scrutiny and censored by her owners, Phillis managed to insert subtle forms of critique against slavery within her work. The letter from John Wheatley was necessary to affirm her talents and to address the skepticism surrounding her ability to write such poetry, not to undermine her achievements nor to proclaim her freedom.