Question

Carefully read the first 3 sentences of the second paragraph. What rhetorical strategy does Henry use to persuade the men in the audience that now is the time to go to war with England?
A) Henry uses an allusion to history.
B) Henry uses an allusion to mythology.
C) Henry uses an allusion to the Bible.
D) Henry uses an allusion to literature.

First 3 Sentences read:
Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty?

Answer 1

Answer:

B) Henry uses an allusion to mythology.

Explanation:

Patrick Henry's speech "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" was given in the Second Virginia Convention. In it, he implored for the deployment of Virginian troops for the Revolutionary War.

The given excerpt is from the second paragraph of the speech where he alludes to the mythological story from Odysseus where the Sirens try to distract the men with their songs and calls, imitating the voices of their loved ones. Likewise, Henry suggests that the 'promises' of the British are just false hopes for the colonists which will only lead to more destruction and be more dehumanized into being captives. He warns about "listen(ing) to the song of the siren (in this case the Britishers) till she transforms us into beasts". His allusion to the mythical sirens is a warning against listening to the colonisers and their false promises, and thus implores for the war against England.

Answer 2

BB) Henry uses an illusion to mythology since sirens are from mythology