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

The sentence which suggests that Patrick Henry believed British rule in the American colonies was tyrannical 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."  

Patrick Henry in his famous speech “Give me liberty, or give me death!” says that there lies a correct time to attain peace. He uses his power of persuasion to keep his thoughts before people. According to him, he would rather opt for death than to be a slave of any other people. He adds that his freedom can never be counted on materialistic terms. No one has the right to buy anyone's freedom. He can either opt for war or die in order to attain freedom.

Answer 2

Answer:

 "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."  

Explanation:

In this sentence, Patrick Henry compares the British domain in the colonies to a mermaid that is full of charms, but has bad intentions with those who hear its singing. By this we can conclude that he is asserting British rule in the American colonies was tyrannical, because that dominance might seem beautiful, seductive and attractive, but the truth is that the domain was intended to take away the sovereignty of the colony and to have full power over the citizens.