Discuss the similarities and differences in how Phillis Wheatley depicts the American struggle for independence in her poem "To His Excellency, General Washington" and how Philip Freneau depicts it in
his poem "A Political Litany." Use textual evidence to support your answer.

The differences in the poems can be seen in the harsh choice of words used by Philip Freneau to describe the Britons which contrasts with the milder language used by Phillis to depict the American struggle. Freneau refers to the Britons in several instances as fools, scoundrels, and pirates.

Freneau's poem was also satirical. This means that he used ridicule to highlight the misdeeds of the British nation. In line 18. the description of the "little fat man with his pretty white hair" was satirical. Wheatley's poem, however, was laudatory. She praised General Washington for his effort in leading the war from the American side. In the last stanza of her poem, Wheatley praises General Washington and hopes that his achievements will stand the test of time.

The two poets were similar or united in their dislike for the British nation who waged war against the Americans for desiring freedom. They also hoped that the American's will be victorious and successfully resist British control.

From lines 29 to 38, Wheatley expresses her desire for the Britons to lose the war. In his last line, Freneau's desire for Britain to be conquered is seen when he says; "And Britain go on—to be *(the word is inappropriate) if she will."

So, in conclusion, the differences between the poems can be seen in the poets' choice of language while the similarities are evident in their desire for Britain to be conquered.

Learn more about the American struggle for independence here:

i love to sleep it's the best