Speech+in+the+Virginia+Convention

Speech in the Virginia Convention By: Patrick Henry

Quotes and Literary techniques 1. “Mr. President: No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the house.” (187)—Flattery

2. “Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason toward my country and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.” (187)—Rhetorical Question

3. “Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? 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?” (188)—Rhetorical Question

4. “Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received?” (188) Insidious-deceitful, and treacherous—Diction

5. “These are the implements of war and subjugation—the last arguments to which kings resort.” (188) Subjugation – The act of conquering—Diction

6. “I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past” (188)—Appeal to Consequences

7. “I ask gentlemen, sir, what mean this martial array, if its purpose be not to force us to submission? Can gentlemen assign any other possible motive for it? Has Great Britain any enemy in this quarter of the world, to call for all this accumulation of naves and armies” (188)—Appeal to Fear, Appeal to Emotion, Appeal to Reason, Rhetorical Question

8. “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! In vain, after these things, may we indulge in the fond hoe of peace and reconciliation.” (189)—Appeal to Ridicule

9. “An appeal to arms and to the God of Hosts is all that is left us!” (189)—Appeal to Emotion

10. “”The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active the brave.” (189) Vigilant – alert to danger.—Diction

11. “Our chains are forged! Their clanging may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable—and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come!” (189)—Appeal to Fear

12. “”Peace, peace”—but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms!” (189)—Appeal to Fear

13. “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty god! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!” (189)—Appeal to Consequences

About the Work

Home