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Speech To The Second Virginia Convention Patrick Henry Rhetorical Analysis

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During the late 1700s, when an emergence of increased nationalism in the American colonies brought forth the need for independence, the majority of American citizens found themselves torn between a deep-rooted loyalty to Mother Britain and the promise of liberties they had ever since been denied. Despite the fact that they had been refused before, some still insisted upon fruitless negotiation with the obstinate King George III. Others, however, argued in favor of war against the tyrant. One prominent political figure and skilled orator, Patrick Henry, contended that American independence was imperative to the rights and liberties of men, and that war was the only solution to their ever-growing problem. At the Second Virginia Convention in Richmond, he addressed the President of the assembly, Peyton Randolph, and other members in an attempt to convince those who were still irresolute on the issue. In “Speech to the Second Virginia Convention”, delegate Patrick Henry uses diction, details, and syntax to create a tone that is fervently patriotic and urgently pleading. …show more content…

Informing the members that there is a “responsibility which we hold to God and our country” not only establishes his ethos, but also defines where he stands on the matter (Pg. 1). Rather than explicitly saying that he is patriotic, Henry’s word choice of “treason” and “disloyalty” act as an antithesis to his views: “I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and an act of disloyalty towards the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings…” (Pg. 1). Showing possession of “[his] country” also suggests that Henry has an emotional attachment to and great respect for America, again adding to the patriotic

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