1. According to Patrick Henry, what is the basic question being debated at the Virginia Convention?

He says that it is "nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery". He describes the magnitude of the situation, and points out that slavery is a "retreat". 2. What reasons does Henry offer to suggest that the British were not worthy of trust at that time? His main reason is that the British were accumulating military forces that must be meant for America. What other worldly enemy would call for such an accumulation? 3. What argument does Henry provide against the notion that the colonies are too weak to fight the British? God has provided them with the strength necessary to combat their adversary(s). If they do not sit around and do nothing, they can win the battle. 4. What is Henry implying when he says that he is loyal to "the majesty of heaven...above all earthly kings"? What tone (manner in which an author expresses his attitude) does this statement hold? He is explaining that he is loyal to God above anybody else. I think the tone is a respectful one, however some may think he was being pompous. 5. Why are Henry's final words so effective and memorable? The words "give me liberty or give me death" have been used innumerable times over the years. The reason they resound so wonderfully in the ears of America is that they have become a symbol of our country. To die instead of having freedom is quite powerful, and Patrick Henry used these words perfectly in his speech. 6. A rhetorical question is a question posed to emphasize a point, not for the purpose of getting an answer. Henry uses this device extensively throughout his speech. Find one example in the speech, quote it and explain what point he is emphasizing with those particular questions. "Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot?" In this rhetorical question, Henry is trying to get the point across that they need to do something. Instead of sitting around and "hoping" that the British will not overcome them, they must begin to fight back.

7. Parallel structuring is the repeating of phrases or sentences which are similar

(parallel) in meaning and structure; repetition is the repeating of the same word or phrases to create a sense of rhythm and emphasis. Find an example of parallel structuring and repetition in the speech. Explain why this device is effectively placed in the speech. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. 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. The phrase "judging by the past" gives Henry a sort of "validation" to what he is saying. It is effectively placed in the speech because it further emphasizes his knowledge of the situation.

8. Allusion is a reference in a speech to a familiar person, place, thing or event. Henry uses two allusions in his speech (they are highlighted in blue).What is the source of each of these allusions? -The first allusion is to mythology. "Sirens" were women in Ancient Greek mythology who were seductive and dangerously deceptive. Henry uses this to say that Americans should not be listening to the voices of the sirens, rather doing what they know is right. -This allusion is to the Bible (in the book of Luke, I believe). Jesus was with Judas and was explaining that a real friend would not kiss you and then turn around and betray you. 9. Syntax is the study of sentence structure. Observe the length of the sentences in the first and last paragraphs of the speech. What differences do you find? How do these differences affect the tone of the speech? I find that as the speech gets nearer to the end, the sentences get longer. This is highly effective, because shorter sentences cause a sense of urgency and forcefulness. 10. Diction is an author's word choice, in this case the orator's choice of words. In the third paragraph, Henry uses a string of verbs (highlighted in orange): petitioned, remonstrated, supplicated, implored. They are arranged in a climactic order, flowing from the mildest to the strongest. Find four synonyms for these verbs, and rewrite that sentence using your choices. Are they as effective as Henry's choices? Why or why not? -Impetrated, inveighed, appealed, abased, importuned -My word choices are not as effective as Henry's. The way he placed and chose his words are perfect; and not to be imitated or done again.

America. Land of the free, home of the brave. This is my country. This is

our country, my friends. Our lives and societies are based on principles of courage and freedom; and with that comes a responsibility to protect and defend. Home of the brave- what does this mean? Bravery is not comprised of submission or passive dormancy. Bravery is not hope, desire, or ambitious musings. And it does not succumb to the British. It is evident that they have assembled an army against us; there is no doubt. They could overcome us and occupy our homes if you like. This would be quite a cinch, would it not? To sit back in an idle state of submission, recoiling in dread. But I must warn you: When the British flag on the uniformed man standing inside your house is as clear as the serene warmth of living American life, you will instantly fall into regret. Slavery, confinement; these are synonyms for defeat and acquiescence. Do you want to be a nation overwhelmed by the sensation of emptiness or failure? To answer that question, simply walk outside. Look at our American flag that billows in the wind with pride and accomplishment. Think to yourself: Is this a symbol for slavery? And so, what I want to say to you today is really an elementary concept. If we do not have liberty, what are we? Without liberty and strength, the American body will become a fragment of the world's memory, disappearing in the sands of time. You are residing in the home of the brave; Let us fortify ourselves against evil and propone honor.