Early American Literature Enlightenment / Revolutionary Literary Period

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper “Every mother should be a true artist, who knows how to weave into her child's life images of grace and beauty, the true poet capable of writing on the soul of childhood the harmony of love and truth, and teaching it how to produce the grandest of all poems - the poetry of a true and noble life” (Harper).

Literary Accomplishments American poet, activist, and writer Human rights advocate First short story by American Author of African descent (“Two Authors”) Poetry focuses on lives of Americans and Americans of African descent

Personal Life 1825 – 1911 Born in Baltimore, Maryland Stressed value of education, the importance of spirituality, and the human right of freedom Self-educated after age of 13 Married Fenton Harper in 1860 Rest of life (Advocate for human rights)

Literary Background Literary Background “Two Offers” Marriage versus Individuality Follows the lives of two cousins: one marries impulsively while the other opts to delay marriage