Question

"On Being Brought from Africa to America" "‘Twas mercy brought me from my pagan land Taught my benighted soul to understand That there’s a God, that there’s a savior, too; Once I redemption neither sought nor knew. Some view our sable race with scornful eye, ‘Their color is a diabolic lie.’ Remember, Christians, Negroes black as Cain May be refined and join the angelic train." (1766, Phillis Wheatley) Historical Context: Intended Audience: Author’s Purpose: Author’s Point of View:

Based on the given passage, what can be inferred about the historical context of this text?

A) The passage was written during the Civil War.
B) The passage was written in a time when slavery was prevalent in America.
C) The passage was authored during the American Revolution.
D) The passage was written during the Civil Rights Movement.

Answer 1

The passage was written during a time when slavery was prevalent in America, and the author's purpose is to challenge negative views of African Americans and highlight their equal potential for redemption and refinement.

Step-by-step explanation:

Historical Context: The passage was written in a time when slavery was prevalent in America.

Intended Audience: The intended audience of the passage is Christians.

Author's Purpose: The author's purpose is to challenge the scornful view of African Americans held by some Christians and to emphasize their equal potential for redemption and refinement.

Author's Point of View: The author's point of view is that African Americans, despite being viewed with scorn by some, can be refined and join the angelic train.

Based on the given passage, it can be inferred that the historical context of this text is B) The passage was written in a time when slavery was prevalent in America.