Published in 1824, this long narrative poem is a retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, focusing on his relationships with his brothers and the themes of betrayal, redemption, and divine providence. Wells' version delves deeper into the psychological and emotional dimensions of the characters, offering a more complex and literary interpretation of the biblical narrative.

The poem was initially well-received by some of Wells' contemporaries but didn't gain widespread recognition, partly because Wells didn't actively promote his work. Despite this, Joseph and His Brethren has been praised for its poetic qualities and depth, though it remains a lesser-known work in the canon of English literature.