Rhetorical Analysis Of Thomas Paine

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In December of 1976, Thomas Paine wrote an article for members of the general public who were uncertain whether they supported the measure of Independence from Great Britain. In addition to the general public, Paine specifically wrote to the “summer soldiers” who were about to finish their enlistment and didn’t want to re-enlist for the winter. Through a variety of rhetorical strategies, Paine crafts a convincing article. The first paragraph offers an appeal to patriotism and a will to fight. The colonists were close to losing the Revolution. Paine looked at this as an opportunity to inspire soldiers, “These are the times that try men’s souls,” the “summer soldier” and the “sunshine patriot” are finishing up their service for the colonies. Many do not want to go back to fight again, but the war is not over. Paine argues now that times are tough, what are the colonists really made of, and to what extent are they willing to go to for their freedom. Are men going to give in to the “tyranny” or “stand now?” Those who stand now …show more content…

Starting this paragraph with, “the heart that feels not now is dead” the reader immediately gets a strong sense of Paine’s opinion. Paine is appealing to a sense of bravery and claims those who do not stand up for their beliefs will see it in “the blood of his children.” Paine then continues with his love for man that “can smile in trouble,” and can “gather strength from distress.” Paine is thus praising those who can stand up for their principles and is demonizing those who are afraid to take a stand against the British. I think in addition to the patriots, Paine is also talking to the tories in the sense that he wants to shame them out of their beliefs, and for them to take a stand against those who oppress them. Those whose “heart is firm” will pursue “his principles unto

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