Question

Which is a central idea of Gates's Mister Jefferson and the Trials of Phillis Wheatley?

A) Wheatley's work has been given a higher historical importance than is deserved.
B) African American literature has historically been credited as superior to other genres.
C) The treatment of Wheatley and all slaves was deplorable and a stain on the nation's history
D) Criticism of Wheatley's work was based more on her race than the content of her work.

Answer 1

B) African American literature has historically been credited as superior to other genres.

Answer 2

Answer: The correct answer is : D) The criticism of Wheatley's work was based more on his race than on the content of his work.

Explanation: Jefferson's criticism of Wheatley inspired other Africans to demonstrate African equality. Gates considers Jefferson the "midwife" of African-American literature because Jefferson's criticisms of Wheatley's work brought forth further African literature to dispute his views.