Textural Anaylisis

In Patrick Henry’s speech he uses just about every form of rhetoric speech. One frequent form is that of his references to slavery. These suggestions apply Logos, Pathos, and Ethos in many ways. One example came from the start of his speech. As he was speaking on the question of going to war or not, he states “For my own part, I consider it nothing less

Once again Henry uses this biblical tactic with the statement “Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss.” This of course is a reference to Christ and Judas prior to the crucifixion. Judas performed the ultimate act of betrayal that led to the suffering and eventual death of the lord Jesus Christ. Henry is saying that they can avoid this, and not be forced to suffer as Christ did. Britain is just waiting for the chance to “crucify” the colonists in a sense. It is an ever going torture that will not end. This choice will haunt them forever.

Not only did Patrick Henry make numerous references to slavery, but he also used many bible analogies. These were extremely powerful, and a form of kingly diction. The first of which stated “. . and to fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country.” With that, Henry is saying to the committee that they, along with him, already have a commitment to fight in the war. They have a duty that is been forged long before, not only to their country, but to God. The colonists, for the most part, all had some sort of religious belief that involved a God. Their God is expecting them to fight in this war according to Henry. To not fight would be the evil thing to do, and that alone would lead to destruction.

In the conclusion of his marvelous speech, he references once more the matter of slavery. He says “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains or slavery?” He basically said would you rather take a risk in hopes of a great reward or to exist forever as a slave bonded in chains? Is your own life so dear to you, that you would not sacrifice yourself for the future of a great nation even for your children? Are you better than the whole? All these questions were tossed around in the air when he gave the speech. The committee really began to think at that point. Henry was truly a master of diction.

The Virginia Revolutionary Committee sat in amazement following this remarkable performance. Patrick Henry had delivered one of the finest speeches of all time. The militia resolutions were passed right then and ther

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