Patrick Henry’s “Speech in the Virginia Convention”
Persuasive Writing Techniques
Part I: Define and offer a synonym for each word listed:
Magnitude
Illusion
Arduous
Temporal
Insidious
Reconciliation
Submission
Supplication
Formidable
Supinely
Delusive
Part II: Answer the following questions/respond to statements. Support with textual evidence from
the text. Cite page number, column and top, middle, bottom for easy reference for sharing.
1. Define “burgess”. Explain Patrick Henry’s reason for addressing the “Virginia House of
Burgesses”.
2. On page 102, When Patrick Henry addresses “Mr. President,” to whom is he speaking?
3. In paragraph one, page 102 when Henry says, “This is not time for ceremony. The question
before the house is one of awful moment to this country.” What is the question he is referring
to?
4. Henry makes extensive use of allusion as a persuasive technique. By alluding to “The Sirens” on
page 102, paragraph 2, what point is he making about the British? What classic work is the
source of the allusion?
5. Explain the point Henry makes with his Biblical allusion, “Suffer yourselves to be betrayed with
a kiss.” (Luke 22:47-48.)
6. Find and explain one more Biblical allusion on page 102, column 2, paragraph 1.
7. One of Henry’s persuasive techniques is the “rhetorical question.” Cite any two examples of
rhetorical question and explain the point he is trying to make in each.
a.
b.
8. Henry also makes extensive use of metaphor as a persuasive technique. He describes the
“chains” which the British have been long forging. (page 104) How does the metaphor illustrate
the conflict between the British and the American colonists?
9. Give at least two examples to show Henry’s use of “chains” as an extended metaphor as he
emphasizes his desire for freedom from the British.
a.
b.
10. Another persuasive technique is “repetition” and “parallel structure”. Find at least three
examples of effective use of repetition and parallel structure. What overall reaction is Henry
hoping for from his audience?
11. If you were a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and were previously undecided about
your vote to oppose the British, what effect would Henrys speech have on your decision? Justify
your response by referring to the parts of his speech which might have affected your emotions.