The Age of Phillis

In 1773, Phillis Wheatley Peters published a book of poetry that challenged Western prejudices about African and female intellectual capabilities. The Age of Phillis, by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, imagines her life and times, including her childhood in the Gambia, her life with her white American owners, her friendship with Obour Tanner, and her marriage to John Peters. Jeffers highlights Wheatley's relationship to black people and their individual mercies, portraying her as a human being who lived and loved while making her indelible mark on history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2022
Publisher: Wesleyan University Press

In 1773, a young African American woman named Phillis Wheatley Peters emerged with a remarkable literary achievement that dared to challenge prevailing Western prejudices regarding African and female intellectual capabilities. Titled "The Age of Phillis," this captivating book is the result of fifteen years of meticulous archival research by acclaimed writer Honorée Fanonne Jeffers. Through vivid storytelling, Jeffers imagines the life and times of Wheatley, encompassing her childhood in the Gambia, West Africa, her experiences with her white American owners, her close friendship with Obour Tanner, and her marriage to the enigmatic John Peters.

Wheatley's age, a period marked by significant political, philosophical, and religious transformations, as well as the transatlantic slave trade, serves as the backdrop for these poetic narratives. What sets this work apart is its unique perspective on Wheatley's relationship with black people and their individual acts of kindness. Jeffers presents Wheatley as a multifaceted human being, rather than a mere racial or literary symbol. We witness her living and loving, leaving an indelible mark on history while navigating the complexities of her time.

Phillis Wheatley Peters' literary triumph showcased her remarkable talent and courage, defying societal expectations and paving the way for future generations of African American women writers. "The Age of Phillis" continues to inspire and educate readers, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing the humanity of individuals who have made significant contributions to our collective history.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780819579508