Richardson, C. F. American Literature, Vol. II, chap. vi.
Stedman, E. C. Poets of America. 1885.
Taylor, Bayard. Critical Essays and Literary Notes. 1880.
Underwood, F. H. John Greenleaf Whittier: a Biography. 1884.
Wendell, Barrett. Stelligeri and Other Essays. 1893.
Whitman, Walt. Specimen Days. April 16, 1881.
TOPICS AND PROBLEMS
Read the poems in Whittier the titles of which suggest local treatment of Essex County life and scenes. Compare these with similar poems in Burns.
Read such poems as “First-Day Thoughts,” “Skipper Ireson’s Ride,” “The Garrison of Cape Ann,” “The Waiting,” “The Eternal Goodness,” and “Our Master” for evidences of Whittier’s religion.
Read Emerson’s essay on “The New England Reformers,” remembering that Whittier was one of these.