Patric Henry Explanatory Essay

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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 the fond hope of peace and reconciliation. There is no longer any room for hope” (82). He claimed that the British had no interest in compromise, and that peacemaking appeals would do nothing but strengthen the British. Another example is, “What terms shall we find which have not been already exhausted? Let us not, I beseech you, sir, deceive ourselves longer. Sir we have done everything that could be done to avert the storm which is now coming on”(82). The violence can not be avoided anymore at this point. All the explanations have been clarified and all emotions have been felt.

Sentiments can be seen and felt throughout the entire speech. Some emotions shown include fear, anger, and wariness of time. “They tell us, sir, that we are weak; unable to cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger? Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house?”(82).Hope is no longer found and Henry must take a stand before it is too late. “I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”(83).Henry shows a goal he is willing to fulfil, the goal is if liberty and freedom is not proposed death may willingly take our lives.

Henry uses literary devices to explain to the audience that the American Revolution must begin. Ethos is used to provide evidence for his audience for total belief. Logos to keep the speech formal and with reasoning. Lastly, Ethos to keep the gist that British is being unjust to the Americans. He set out to convince the Virginia delegates that the war with England was inevitable and the longer they waited the harder the war would be to win.