Friday, February 29, 2008

Patrick Henry & Thomas Paine


"Give me Liberty or, give me death"
By Patrick Henry

"We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the numbers of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth, to know the worst, and to provide for it."


"The Crisis, No. 1"
By Thomas Paine

"I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and
grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose
heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his
principles unto death."
Logos
Ethos
Pathos



Reflection:

Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Paine share the same motive that if you are threatened or treated wrongly while being innocent or with cruel intent that they should rebel and fight back.
These men offered their lives and knowledge; which in the long run has benefited us as a society. Because these men gave us insight, we have a different understanding of a situation and now have a different approach on how we may want to handle a similar issue in the future; this also showed how corrupt our society was as a whole. I personally think that Patrick Henry relates to George W. Bush. I think this because they both think that going into War is the best way to settle a situation, if they are unable to compromise; I personally agree. Thomas Paine in my mind represents Obama, I think this because Obama wants change and so does Paine, they both believe in fighting for what is right, but not senseless fights.

Dear Diary:
Although painful to hear the turth, we must know what is real. Although difficult to bear the truth, others must be told. Especially in a time of war when many must fight for one cause, but if no one is aware of the same cause then we are all fighting seperate battles, are we not?

Essential Question:
The American Dream offers hope by giving the people protection against outside threats. However when the barrier keeping them safe is broken one must take action to protect oneself and his family, such as enrolling in the War. Ultimatley causing intolerance to occur within the community.

1 comment:

Ms. Micallef said...

Kyle

If you share the reflection for the 2 writings - it must be more extensive and you need to answer questions of ethos.logos.pathos. Diary Entry is too short and evasive
Essential Question can also be more developed.

Where is the social dialogue? This should be done.

Grade: 84

Micallef