Question

The excerpt is taken from Patrick Henry's famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech to the Second Virginia Convention in 1775. Which sentence suggests that Patrick Henry believed British rule in the American colonies was tyrannical? No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the House. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do, opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely, and without reserve. This is no time for ceremony. The question before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfil the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offence, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the majesty of heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings. 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? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it.

Answer 1

I'm going to put something here, but it is only so that there is open debate, just as Patrick Henry asked for in Virginia in 1775.

The sentence the other responder gave has great merit. The problem is that it does not address the question of tyranny. What it does address is the question of the tendency of the other speakers trying to brush the problem under the rug. He is saying that if they are listened to, our senses will be dulled and ignoring what the siren (a mytical woman capable of luring sailors in the rocks they are not paying attention to because of her song), we become as beasts.

The sentence containing slavery addresses who really is at fault and what the wrong choice will mean.

Answer 2

The key sentence is: "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." This means that if the leaders continue to act like nothing is wrong, they will gradually become desensitized to their wrongdoings until they think their actions are right. no matter what.

The line "I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery" may appear to be similar, but that is not talking about the issue itself yet, but just about the magnitude of it, or how serious the issue is that it needs an open discussion.