An Analysis of Thomas Paine's, "The Crisis No. 1"

After examining examples of the two different metaphorical intents used in “The Crisis, No.

In addition to ridiculing the ways of the British government, Paine used his persuasive metaphors to promote and glorify some revolutionary causes: Liberty, independence, and unity. Paine’s metaphors appeal to both the reader’s intellect and emotions. It compares Americans’ undying love for independence and liberty to an everlasting coal. Both metaphors paint a very disparaging pictur!

e of the British government; they make it appear to be comprised of a group of immoral, evil, unjust, self-serving, thieves. Secondly, Paine illustrates the sacredness of unity amongst the states in the metaphor, “Mutual fear is the principle link in the chain of mutual love, and woe be to that state that breaks the compact. ” Paine is referring to a recent Parliamentary act called the Declaratory Act of 1776. “…for though the flame of liberty may sometimes cease to shine, the coal can never expire. ” This metaphor is symbolic in that the mutual fear refers to the states’ shared fear of the possible consequences resulting from losing the Revolutionary War. ” This eloquent metaphor describes liberty as a flame that is eternally fueled by a people burning with a passion for independence. ” The implied metaphor of slavery is one that is designed to evoke anger in the reader.

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**Bibliography**

. 1,” the roles each play in persuading the reader to support the Revolution are clearly evident. ” His link between Britons and the devil is another implied metaphor that deprecates the character and philosophies of the British government.