A Rhetorical Analysis Of Patrick Henry's Speech

The viewpoints of Patrick Henry that were expressed in his speech showed his compassion in fixing the problem with the opposing side, the British. He explained that the colonists must fight against the British and he is urging the colonists to make preparations for war. He states that the efforts for compromise have failed and fighting is their only option [1]. Patrick explains what the British are doing to the colonists, he mentions, “listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts” (Henry 228) [2]. This shows the false hope that the colonists have in their hearts of the British. The false hope that the situation with the British will improve without fighting. He also mentions, “Are we disposed to be the number of those who having eyes see not, and having ears hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation” (Henry 228) [2]. He is explaining from this that the colonists will lose their temporal salvation, which is freedom, if they continue to be blind and deaf to the actions of the British.. He also adds on, “is it that insidious smile …show more content…
In his speech, he says, “war-like preparations which cover our water and darken our land” [2]. He is explaining that without making preparations, the British will conquer the states and ruin the lives of the colonists. Patrick responds to the other side of the argument that America could create a treaty with the British. He says that they have tried that many times but failed [2]. So he proves that the only solution is to fight against the British. He mentions in his speech, “And what have we to oppose them? Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the past ten years. Have we anything new to offer on the subject. Nothing” [2]. This shows that there are no more peaceful resolutions with the British and fighting is their only