Henry is saying that the British are clearly preparing for war, no matter what they may protest to the contrary, and therefore, the colonists need to be prepared as well. It's really an incredibly powerful rhetorical tool when used in this way. In sentences 70 through 73 Henry asks a series of questions, "Why stand we here idle? It combines the written word with music and has a unique ability to capture our imagination like no other medium. FL_L11PE-u01s41-VirCon.indd 226 1/28/08 4:47:05 PMFL_L11PE-u01s41-VirCon.indd 227 1/28/08 4:47:07 PM 1 Targeted Passage "Give me liberty or give me death," is a quote from Patrick Henry's famous speech delivered March 23, 1775 to the members of the Virginia Congress. But, how does poetry do all of this? It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general. Patrick Henry, speech to the Virginia Convention, March 23, 1775, http://avalon.law.yale.edu/18th_century/patrick.asp, http://www.loc.gov/pictures/resource/det.4a26383/, http://www.richmond.com/image_d0936222-3d78-11e2-9cd8-001a4bcf6878.html, http://www.loc.gov/pictures/resource/ppmsca.34917/, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Henry#/media/File:Patrick_Henry_Rothermel.jpg, http://www.loc.gov/pictures/resource/cph.3b50326/, Lexington and Concord: Tipping Point of the Revolution, ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.1 (cite evidence to analyze specifically and by inference), ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.4 (determine the meaning of words and phrases), ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.6 (determine authors point of view), Key Concept 3.1 (IIB) (arguments about rights of British subjects, the rights of the individual,), The first two paragraphs form the introduction (, The third paragraph provides the statement of fact (, The fourth paragraph presents and refutes counter arguments (, The final paragraph forms the conclusion (, Text analysis and close reading questions. 12. The American Colonies were attempting to negotiate with British in 1775, and many of Henrys fellow delegates wanted to wait until these negotiations were completed before taking action. What are some examples of ethos, logos, and pathos in Patrick Henry's Patrick Henry's speech is based on an either/or premise, which can be summed up in antithetical terms as fight or die. He clearly indicates that he chooses the second option. 0000004778 00000 n In sentence 43 he says, "There is no longer any room for hope." A hypophora is useful to present to an audience issues they may not have considered in depth. (15) And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years, to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves, and the House? Minor premise [B]: Talking does not achieve results. The often-quoted lines from Tennyson's poem, ''The Charge of the Light Brigade,'' illustrate this point . 0000004268 00000 n Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the last ten years. (sentences 30, 31, and 32). He states that it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope but in the last sentence of the paragraph he clearly says he will not do that he will know the whole truth. His argument will contain truth but will not contain illusions. The use of rhetorical analysis is very useful to make works appealing and contribute effectively to the author's purpose. 0 Saint Johns Church, Richmond, Virginia, where Patrick Henry delivered his famous speech. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. Peter F. Rothermel, Patrick Henrys Treason speech before the House of Burgesses, 1851. He wants to be seen as respectful in order to get his message across more clearly. So, how is this different from antithesis? 11. What was the purpose of the "Speech to the Virginia Convention"? He recognizes and compliments the patriotism and abilities of the other members of the Convention in his first sentence (note that Henry continues to address the body as the House). Whether tis nobler in the mind to suffer, The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. This sets up the second major element of antithesis: Henry's famous proclamation, "give me liberty or give me death.". 13. What is the "if then" statement in this paragraph? To really get a feel for antithesis and to see how common it is in everyday life, here are a few common sayings and expressions that rely on this literary device. 2. HdSMo0W(*d0X;dm7v)I4E=>]\",w:CM_U[:teQj5y^^Nl5sIF)RVbZ)^9* Z\ {y%MA.z1rf HlBRV@O]TnIfa_L6J" Resenting this British interference with local government, the members of the House of Burgesses regrouped as a state convention. Henry's use of "Peace, Peace--but there is no peace" is a biblical allusion meant to force the audience to agree that the English are beginning a war where there will never be peace" (66). Henry completely rejects the possibility of reconciliation with Britain. Avec un partenaire, jouez les deux roles. Henry uses the term "ceremony" to stress the importance of not trying to just placate the situation, but deal with the truth. -To inspire: "Give me liberty or give me death" (sentence 75). It relies on parallel phrases, remember? 0000008014 00000 n (an-TIH-theh-sis): Figure of balance in which two contrasting ideas are intentionally juxtaposed, usually through parallel structure; a contrasting of opposing ideas in adjacent phrases, clauses, or sentences. So, the use of contrasting elements helps the quote work. Identify and discuss three main points Henry uses . The major premise [A] is we must either fight or talk to achieve results, the minor premise [B] is talking does not achieve results, and the conclusion is since talking does not achieve results we must fight. He chooses verbs that are increasingly dramatic to remind his audience that the Colonies have tried everything without result. Patrick Henry, former governor of Virginia, bravely spoke on the 23rd of March, 1775, at St. John's Church, introducing his strategies to end the American Revolution in victory. Patrick Henry, former governor of Virginia, bravely spoke on the 23rd of March, 1775, at St. John's Church, introducing his strategies to end the American Revolution in victory. It illustrates the positive qualities of the people fighting in the battle. Give an example in this paragraph of an attempt to engage the audience and an example of an attempt to prepare the audience. In paragraph 4 Henry uses procatalepsis, an argumentative strategy that anticipates an objection and then answers it. Hx* This indicates the courage that Henry displays by making the speech and by implication he recognizes the courage that will be necessary for his fellow delegates to take action. The time for vacillation is over; there is no longer any point in trying to compromise with the British. He appeals to ethos in sentence 53 by saying "we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power." But different men often see the same But, you should also notice the use of parallelism. In reality the sirens were ugly beasts, that killed the men as soon as they approached and ate them. (44) If we wish to be free, if we mean to preserve inviolate those inestimable privileges for which we have been so long contending, if we mean not basely to abandon the noble struggle in which we have been so long engaged, and which we have pledged ourselves never to abandon until the glorious object of our contest shall be obtained, we must fight! Henry uses parallelism (structuring phrases in similar fashion) several times in this paragraph. ", "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Ex #1: "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose" -- Jim . Why does Henry begin the second sentence with but? Because Henry sees the options as slavery (in submitting to Britain) or freedom (in successfully asserting independence), and because Henry refuses to accept this kind of "slavery," the only options left were liberty and death. You can find it on YouTube. xref Let us know your assignment type and we'll make sure to get you exactly the kind of answer you need. (61) Our chains are forged! As a rhetorical device, antithesis is defined very specifically as the use of: The effect is to heighten the contrastand in many cases,vividly drive the speakers point home. How, in this sentence, does Henry suggest that his listeners can trust him? The Peroratio, or conclusion, has several purposes, including: to restate an argument, to amplify reasoning, to inspire an audience, and to rouse emotional responses. 0000001373 00000 n Sententia, especially useful in speeches, is an argumentative device that uses sound to sum up an argument. What argument does he anticipate and what two rhetorical strategies does he use to refute it? In this paragraph Henry uses emotional appeals, language intended to create an emotional response from the audience. To Henry, a life of slavery is not a life at all and hence not worth living "Is life so dear, or peace so dear as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Henry again makes a Biblical allusion in sentence 18, Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss. Christ was betrayed by his disciple Judas through the kiss of brotherhood, which led to Christs arrest and crucifixion (Luke 22:47). Henry lists several negotiation attempts by colonists and British responses. 9. Henry begins this paragraph with another Biblical allusion, "one lamp by which my feet are guided" (Psalms 119:105). Henry believes by facing the truth instead of saying what they want to hear, the people can gain their freedom. While the speech can be used to investigate issues of freedom, power, and rights of the governed, this lesson focuses upon effective rhetoric. He connects this with the biblical verse because it shows that he knows what he is doing, and how it will guide him along the path. (11) Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? 0000001904 00000 n The Convention members consider themselves to be men of integrity and ethics, as Henry acknowledged in sentence 1. As a result, in addition to referring to a literary device, antithesis also means that something is the opposite of something else. He uses the possessive pronoun our when discussing the chains, even though the clanking is heard is Boston. Hypophora is a special type of rhetorical question whereby a question is asked and then answered by the speaker (as opposed to a typical rhetorical question, which is either not answered or has a yes/no answer). No guts, no glory. 0000000997 00000 n 0000001256 00000 n In sentences 61 and 62 he states, Our chains are forged! 0000003309 00000 n Henry returns to the metaphor of slavery to strengthen his argument regarding not taking action. (62) Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! Antithesis as a Figure of Speech: Meaning, Usage & Examples - Linguablog Henry seeks to establish his respect for those who do not agree with him by referring to them as gentlemen. PATRICK HENRY'S SPEECH TO THE VIRGINIA CONVENTION: RHETORIC - Quizlet 28. Why does he use the term ceremony? What rhetorical device eNotes.com will help you with any book or any question. Why did he use this term again? What purpose does Henry establish, and to what is he appealing in order to emphasize this purpose? He means there is no choice but to fight. Find an example of metonomy and synecdoche in this paragraph and identify what each represents. Antithesis - The Lost Art of the Great Speech: How to Write It * How to The main function of antithesis in a speech is to give emphasis to an idea by placing it next to a contrasting idea. I have provided an example for each type of antithesis from Henry's speech. So, the bottom line is if you want to use antithesis, then try to use parallelism as well. And he wants the members of his audience to do likewiseto take up arms in defense of American liberty against a power that has so frequently and blatantly violated it. In sentence 54 he appeals to Logos and pathos by citing "three millions of people (logos) armed in the holy cause of liberty (pathos), and in such a country as that which we possess (pathos, patriotism).". Consider sentence 42, "In vain, after these things, may we indulge the fond hope of peace and reconciliation." Consider petition (to bring written grievances) versus remonstrate (to forcefully protest) versus supplicate (to beg earnestly or humbly) versus prostrate (to totally submit) versus implore (to beg desperately). Poetry is one of the most sublime art forms imaginable. 8. Solace means comfort in distress. What is the sententia in this speech? (63) The war is inevitable and let it come! Henry's Striking Speech. Allusions, unexplained references to other sources, are commonly based upon the Bible or mythology. Most of the British military action to this point had occurred in and around Boston. (5) For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. This is intended to arouse the audience by saying that they will be enslaved. Henry begins this paragraph with another Biblical allusion, one lamp by which my feet are guided (Psalms 119:105). Given the framing of such a stark choice, it's inevitable that on Henry's terms, all freedom-loving Americans would rather be dead than live without liberty. Speech to the Second Virginia Convention. In sentences 70 through 73, Henry uses a series of questions which directly challenge his fellow delegates. (7) Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offence, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the majesty of heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings. He inserts appeals to ethos, logos, and pathos. He is recognizing the treasonable nature of this discussion, displaying not only his own courage but asking his fellow delegates to show courage as well. He also wants to let the audience know he is addressing the same people in both sentences. How might the format of the Henry speech apply to current events, especially in countries and regions of political unrest? It reminds us that people will always make mistakes, but only the best of us will find the strength to forgive and let go. Or to take arms against a sea of trouble. Since were on the subject of contrasting ideas, it is worth taking a look at a few other literary devices that are usually confused with antithesis. It attempts to win over listeners on the basis of the trustworthiness of the speaker. The obvious, and unspoken, answer is liberty, of course. (41) Our petitions have been slighted; our remonstrances have produced additional violence and insult; our supplications have been disregarded; and we have been spurned, with contempt, from the foot of the throne. The parenthesis is after these things, and Henry is referring to the Colonies attempts at reconciliation. Many other members of the convention want to remain humble and respectful towards Britain and negotiate a treaty. This statement will try to convince the reader to fight for hope instead of dream of it. Examples of Literary Devices Used in Patrick Henry'S "Give Me Liberty (Sentence 43-44). The foot of the throne (sentence 41) is metonomy, representing the King. ", -Patrick Henry, in his speech to the Second Virginia Convention, 1775, "No, our motto is, when they go low, we go high. Henry makes an appeal 1726 Words 7 Pages Decent Essays Read More Cite evidence from the text. Antithesis, broadly defined, means juxtaposing opposing ideas. He is emphasizing the time-sensitive nature of this debate and establishing the importance of immediate, serious discussion rather than a postponement of the issue (recall that some members of the Convention wished to wait until negotiations had run their course before beginning military preparedness). Major premise [A]: We must either talk or fight to achieve results. Patrick Henry is not speaking in the Virginia House of Burgesses [the state legislature] in Williamsburg because it had been dissolved the year before by Royal Governor Dunmore. Sententia, especially useful in speeches, is an argumentative device that uses sound to sum up an argument. His use of pronouns reinforces the idea that the chains heard in Boston are also the chains of Virginians. Christ was betrayed by his disciple Judas through the kiss of brotherhood, which led to Christ's arrest and crucifixion (Luke 22:47). Henry begins the second sentence with "but" to show he is continuing his previous thought. Antithesis "There is no retreat but in submission and slavery." Ethos (Ethical Appeal) APPEAL: "Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use of the means which the God of nature hath placed in our power." Logos (Logical Appeal) APPEAL: " What terms shall we find which have not been already exhausted? What does Henry mean by "awful moment" in sentence 4? 35. What rhetorical devices are used in Patrick Henry's speech? It tells us that a Green Lanterns duty is to fight evil during the best of times and the worst of times. (34) Nothing. You may choose words, phrases, imagery, or other language elements. Anyone who is a DC fan knows that the above phrase is from the oath of the Green Lanterns. Antithesis - Definition and Examples | LitCharts 5. Why does he use this phrase? He wants the listeners to understand that there are only two options; freedom, which he is advocating, or slavery, which he knows these proud, wealthy men, many of whom are slaveholders, will not tolerate. Henry continues to use gentlemen in this paragraph. Give an example of an "illusion of hope" that Henry suggests in this second paragraph. Twenty-seven days after this speech was delivered the Battles of Lexington and Concord proved Henry correct. (55) Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. "But when shall we be stronger? He sees no middle ground between a war for freedom from Great Britain or being ground down under the heel of tyranny. Juxtaposition means to put two elements side by side, often for comparison. This comparison is explaining how the king will draw them in as well as forcing them into transforming their country if they chose to listen to his actions. In sentence 7 Henry is asking them to understand that he likewise is compelled to speak based on his own sense of integrity (if he holds back, he would consider himself guilty of treason). It's not a show, friends; it's show business. "The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave"(Par. 31. 9.;;0pV#i?mAYw3Y6L~Xe~XPgv31m5Q5^. (22) Let us not deceive ourselves, sir. In 1775 American independence was not a foregone conclusion. Each month, our Buckley School resident students of classical rhetoric explain a rhetorical device that can improve your public speaking. The Narratio contextualizes the argument, including presenting any background information necessary, while the Confirmatio lays out in order the evidence to support the thesis. (37) What terms shall we find which have not been already exhausted? Its like having a boat with a strong motor, but then you shut off the motor and hope the current will be strong enough to take you where you need to go. In sentence 7 Henry is asking them to understand that he likewise is compelled to speak based on his own sense of integrity (if he holds back, he would consider himself "guilty of treason"). By now, I hope you see how common antithesis is. There is no longer any middle position that can be adopted; there are only two choices: liberty or death. Cite an example from the text of each of these four purposes. (67) The war is actually begun! In sentence 75, probably the most famous sentence from this speech, Henry uses antithesis to set up a clear contrast. 0000002338 00000 n 0000003619 00000 n As a rhetorical device, antithesis is defined very specifically as the use of: 1) two opposing ideas 2) presented in parallel structure 3) in the same sentence The effect is to heighten the contrastand in many cases, vividly drive the speaker's point home.
examples of antithesis in patrick henry's speech