Patrick Henry

This speech is very convencing. The power with which Henry speeks is unmatchable. I have chosen this passage to reflect upon:

From "Give me libery or gove me death" speech:
"Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the numbers of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth, to know the worst, and to provide for it...Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare to your feet. Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss."

I chose this passage because I appreciate the illusion to Oedipus, and the bible, and also how Henry questions the character of not only the officials, but of every man in america. He uses illusion, and rhetorical questions to convey his tone of anger, and urgency to the american people as they are oppressed by the dominent great britain. Also, he enhances his tone of urgency by using repetition, and fast-paced rhythm to make the reader be engaged in the urgency of the need for revolution.

~Jasmine Marie~