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Block _________
Revolutionary Literature
Letter the Rev. Samson Occom & Letter to John Adams (page 282)
In the space below, summarize the Build Background: Letters from Colonial Women
section from page 282.
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Literary Letters
A literary letter is a personal letter that has been published because a well-known figure wrote it
and/or because it provides information about the period in which it was written. Literary letters
may reveal both personal concerns and public issues. As you read the letters, fill in the diagram
below for one letter of your choice. In the box labeled Public, write 2-3 public issues that the writer
addresses. In the box labeled Private, write 2-3 private issues the writer addresses.
Letter: _________________________________________________
Author:_________________________________________________
Public
Private
Figurative Language
Figurative Language is language that communicates ideas beyond the literal meanings of the
words. Two common forms of figurative language are similes and metaphors. A metaphor makes a
direct comparison between two unlike things that have something in common: “Our country is a
parent.” A simile states the comparison using like or as: “Our country is like a parent.” On the
chart below, list examples of figurative language from these letters. Classify each example as a
simile or metaphor and explain that ideas the comparison suggests.
Example
“the divine light is chasing away the thick
darkness” – Letter to Rev. Occom
Simile or
Metaphor
Metaphor
Ideas Suggested
The spread of Christianity helps to
eliminate oppression and injustice
Comprehension/Critical Analysis
1. According to Phillis Wheatley, religious freedom by itself is not enough to make a person
free. What other freedom does she say is necessary?
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2. What “strange absurdity” does Wheatley refer to?
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3. Explain why Abigail Adams is very concerned about the safety of Boston.
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4. What contrast does Adams point out between the goals of the Congress and the attitude
of the delegates toward their wives?
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6. How similar are the purposes of Wheatley’s letter and Adams’s letter? Consider the
private and public issues they address.
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7. Adams and Whitley did not intend their letters to be published, but many people have
read and enjoyed them. Name a contemporary woman whose letters or diaries might be
read 200 years from now. Justify your choice.
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