From “The American Crisis” by Thomas Paine
T-Chart Literary Analysis
Quote (include page #)Identify a minimum of five significant and challenging quotes from the text. Be sure to use quotation marks. / Analysis:
- Interpret (paraphrase or summarize) – In your own words, what is Paine saying?
- Criticize – Do you agree or disagree with his argument? Explain why or why not.
- Classify – (a) Is this quote an example of ethos, pathos, or logos? Is this quote an example of figurative language (metaphor, simile, personification, etc.)? Explain citing evidence. (b) What effect does the use of this rhetorical device and/or figurative language have on you as the reader?
Example Quote:
“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman” (117). / Example Analysis:
Interpret:
Paine is saying that it is during the hard times in life that a person is tested to see what he [or she] is truly made of. What Paine is saying is that it is the men that will weather the storm and not cower when times get rough who deserve recognition for their bravery from their fellow countrymen.
Criticize:
I can agree with this because I believe that a person’s true character can only be tested when faced with a challenge, and if that person rises to the occasion and accepts the challenge it shows true strength and courage. I believe that it is indeed easier to serve one’s country during times of peace (although it is just as honorable), but to serve during a time of war when the risk of injury or death is at stake really says a lot about a person.
Classify:
(a) I find this particular quote to be an example ofboth pathos and logos—pathos because its purpose is to evoke a sense of patriotism and courage in the audience. In a sense it says, “Don’t you want to be loved and respected by your countrymen?”, or “Do you want to be seen as a coward?” It is a logical argument which gives a good reason for a person to want to stand up and fight.
(b) I find the effect of this deviceto be effective because who does not want to be loved, respected, and appreciated? I do not know of anyone who would want to be seen as cowardly; therefore, it encourages the reader to strive for the positive recognition and move to action.
Quote #1: / Summary:
Criticize:
Classify:
(a)
(b)
Quote #2 / Summary:
Criticize:
Classify:
(a)
(b)
Quote #3 / Summary:
Criticize:
Classify:
(a)
(b)
Quote #4 / Summary:
Criticize:
Classify:
(a)
(b)
Quote #5: / Summary:
Criticize:
Classify:
(a)
(b)