1942, Brebeuf and His Brethren by E. J. Pratt

Edward John “E. J.” Pratt (1882-1964) was a prominent Canadian poet, known for his narrative and epic‐style poems.
He often explored large historical or natural themes (the sea, wilderness, Canada’s past) in his work, blending rigorous research with poetic voice.
Brébeuf and His Brethren won the Governor General’s Award for Poetry in 1940.

Title: Brébeuf and His Brethren.
Although you referenced “1942”, most sources list its first publication as 1940.
It is an epic‐length narrative poem, in blank verse, recounting the story of Jean de Brébeuf and his fellow Jesuit missionaries working among the Huron people in 17th-century what is now Canada.
The poem is available in full via Project Gutenberg Canada.

Missionary endeavour & martyrdom: The poem portrays the Jesuits' arrival, their work in harsh conditions, encounters with Indigenous peoples, conflicts, and the eventual martyrdom of Brébeuf and others.
Wilderness & survival: The savage Canadian frontier features heavily—the rivers, the forests, the portages, the winter cold. For example, Pratt writes of canoe routes, the cabin smoke, mosquitoes, freezing temperatures.
Cultural encounter: There is attention to the interaction between European missionaries and Indigenous people (Huron, Iroquois). The language, the rituals, the conflict of belief systems appear.
Sacrifice & faith: The poem is deeply rooted in Christian imagery—crosses, martyr’s wounds, service in spite of danger. The idea of giving one’s life “for the cause” is central.
Canadian identity & history: Although grounded in 17th-century events, the poem contributes to the larger narrative of Canadian history—exploring how early colonial and Indigenous histories shape Canada’s story.

It is widely regarded as one of the major Canadian epic poems of its era, illustrating Pratt’s ambition to treat Canadian subject matter with the weight and style of classical epics.
The poem offers rich historical detail (though poetic) and has been used by literary scholars to discuss how Canada’s past is poetically represented.
It shows Pratt’s stylistic strength: combining narrative, historical documentation, poetic imagery and formal control.

Perspective & bias: As with many works of its time, the representation of Indigenous peoples is from a European/missionary viewpoint. Contemporary readers should be aware of the colonial framework that underpins much of the narrative.
Historical vs poetic license: While grounded in real events, the poem takes liberties for dramatic or poetic effect. If you are using it as a historical source, you should cross-check with primary historical documents.
Language & style: The poem uses somewhat elevated, formal language and may feel dense. Its epic length means it requires commitment.
Cultural sensitivity: Some descriptions or attitudes may reflect earlier 20th-century norms which do not align with modern Indigenous‐centred perspectives.

If you’re studying early Canadian mission history, the Huron-Jesuit period, or representations of colonial contact, this poem gives a rich literary lens.
For poetry or literature courses focused on Canadian identity, this is a key work in the canon.
As a devotional or spiritual text, it may appeal to those interested in martyrdom, sacrifice or Christian mission narratives – though one should engage critically.