Thomas Paine example essay topic

A piece of historical literature can have three different purposes: One, contributing to the development of literary history; Two, contributing to the development of a genre or style; and three, contributing to the development of a specific country's story or telling the story of that people. Thomas Paine was one of the most persuasive and prestigious writers of the eighteenth century. Following the success of "The Common Sense", Thomas Paine decided to write yet another pamphlet "The American Crisis" to convince all of the colonists to be support of breaking away from Britain's stronghold over America. Through use of ethos, pathos and logos, Thomas Paine conquers the art of persuasive writing.

"The Crisis: No. 1" contributed to the melting together of all colonists to unite as a nation in spirit and in thought, thus bringing about success in the Revolutionary War. As the editor of the best-selling publication, Pennsylvania Magazine, and author of "The Common Sense", Thomas Paine had much influence over the media. Just before the publication of the first of thirteen "Crisis" pamphlets, British General Howe had defeated General Washington more than once, the army was getting weary and discouraged, and so was the support of the colonists. It was at that moment when Thomas Paine decided to use his 'power of the press' and raise the hopes of all Americans. In December 1776, Paine wrote "The Crisis" with the intent of gaining the support of the Loyalists and the Neutrals to side with the Patriots by exposing the stubbornness and tyranny of Britain. He did not use elaborate words, but rather he wanted to speak very plainly yet directly so that even the uneducated craftsmen could understand and thus make a fair and well-informed decision.

He understood that an easily readable article would be just as accepted, if not more. About halfway through the paper he states, "I shall conclude this paper with some miscellaneous remarks on the state of our affairs; and shall begin with asking the following questions" to prepare his reader for the rest of the paper and keep things simple. Paine also used phrases that were common at that period of time. Terms like "tories", which would be interpreted then as a Loyalist, "wigs", a Patriot, and "folly " were used, as well as referring to current events, leaders, and places which updated the reader on past events gave credit to Paine's view. Paine points out the fact that he is trying to be as simple as he can by saying "I bring reason to your ears, and, in language as plain as A, B, C, hold up truth to your eyes". Thomas Paine uses ethos a lot throughout his pamphlet to communicate to the colonists on a spiritual level.

One of the biggest reasons that people came to America was for religious freedom. God and religion was therefore first and foremost in the lives of the colonists, so mentioning this divine deity was a vital tactic for Paine to use, perhaps even second nature. In the opening paragraph, Paine compares the force that Britain uses to bind America, such as taxes, to a power that is "impious" and is "so unlimited" and should "belong only to God". He continues throughout his paper to refer to and thank God. He recognizes His blessing of great leaders to our country, "God hath blessed him [General Washington] with uninterrupted health, and given him a mind that can even flourish upon care". He also quotes the bible and advises the colonists to continually have faith in God, to be humble, and that He will bless them in return.

A large concern of the colonial population was that by declaring that we would continue to go to 'war' with Britain, the term 'war' brought thoughts of blood and destruction to their minds. Paine addresses this very concern by saying that "God Almighty will not give up a people to military destruction, or leave them unsupported ly to perish, who have so earnestly and so repeatedly sought to avoid the calamities of war". Thus, he points out that America has tried to find peace with the enemy, but once the response is not for peace, America needs to go to war and fight for their country, their families, and their freedom. Lastly, a large chunk of "The Crisis" is targeted towards those "tories" or Loyalists, who are still in support of the Crown of England. Paine makes the accusation that "Every tory is a coward; for servile, slavish, self-interested fear is the foundation of toryism; and a man under such influence, though he may be cruel, never can be brave". He says that their presence and conduct is "an invitation to the enemy", that Britain is not interested in their opinions but would use them as an internal force to be soldiers and eventually take up arms from within.

He also states that General Howe is the tories' greatest enemy, with the insight that "he is bringing a war into their country, which, had it not been for him... they had been clear of". Thomas Paine is forceful and heated over this matter. However, he does not lose sight of practicality, nor does he lie; instead he makes his point directly and truthfully. The following statement is a good summary of his attitude towards this very subject: "A man can distinguish himself between temper and principle, and I am as confident, as I am that God governs the world, that America will never be happy till she gets clear of foreign dominion."The American Crisis: No. 1" is an excellent example of a persuasive writing and all that it should entail. Thomas Paine appeals to all the emotions of the reader: emotionally, logically, as well as spiritually. To do this, Paine wanted to appeal to all audiences by using common, everyday language.

He also recognized that mentioning God would perhaps create a more attentive ear. Thurs, Thomas Paine was able to successfully write "The American Crisis" and persuade many more colonists to join in the fight against Britain, which would ultimately lead to victory..