What is robert hayden middle passage?

"Middle Passage" is a narrative poem written by African-American poet Robert Hayden. It was first published in 1962 and later included in the collection, "Selected Poems" in 1966. The work explores the brutal and inhumane conditions of the slave trade, which saw millions of Africans forcibly transported from their homes to the Americas.

The poem is structured as a series of dramatic monologues spoken by various figures involved in the slave trade, including an African tribal leader, an African slave, a European sailor, and a ship's captain. Through these voices, Hayden evokes the horror of the Middle Passage, depicting the dehumanizing treatment of the slaves, the violence and murder that occurred during the journey, and the psychological toll that the experience had on both the captives and the captors.

Hayden's use of language in "Middle Passage" is powerful and vivid, employing striking images and metaphors to convey the brutality of the slave trade. The poem has been praised for its compassionate portrayal of the slaves, as well as its condemnation of the inhumanity of the institution of slavery.

Overall, "Middle Passage" is a powerful and moving piece of poetry that addresses one of the greatest tragedies of human history. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities of the slave trade, and of the urgent need for continued efforts to fight against racism and oppression.