Final answer:
The term 'sable divinity' is a metaphorical reference to slavery, invocating its powerful and negative influence as a 'dark force.' Phillis Wheatley uses this term for its metaphorical richness and to criticize slavery subtly, engaging with her educated audience while avoiding direct confrontation in a racially sensitive society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "sable divinity" in sentence 21 refers to the notion of an all-powerful force or entity that is dark or black in color, which in the context of the passage can be interpreted as a metaphor for slavery. Phillis Wheatley uses 'sable divinity' to encapsulate the powerful and pervasive influence of slavery, framing it as a dark force that governs and shapes lives. By referring to slavery in this manner, Wheatley challenges her audience to reconsider the institution that was so entrenched in society.
In the broader context of Wheatley's work, the use of such language is subversive and critical. Through her writing, she demonstrates the capacity for Black individuals to engage with and contribute meaningfully to intellectual discourse, thereby challenging notions of racial inferiority. Her choice of 'sable divinity' as opposed to something more direct, like 'slavery,' allows for a nuanced critique that can be interpreted on multiple levels, resonating with those who perceive its deeper meaning while avoiding outright confrontation in a society where she had to navigate racial tensions and inequalities.