The Crisis, No. 1
Thomas Paine
1. According to Paine, what is the best way to defeat the British?
2. What reasons does Paine give for his confidence that God will favor
the Americans?
3. How will the Americans be consoled for their hardships?
4. What does Paine suggest would happen to a state that surrenders its
arms to the British?
5. What does Paine suggest that the Tories are doing?
6. To whom does Paine compare the British king?
7. What is Paine suggesting about the British in this comparison?
8. Why does Paine say that General Howe is “the greatest enemy the
Tories have?
9. How does Paine intend to inspire his readers?
10.What anecdote does Paine use in this selection?
11.Is he appealing to reason or emotion with this anecdote?
12.Which mode of persuasion is Paine using in the line, “Tyranny like
hell, is not easily conquered.”
13.Quote an example form The Crisis of dramatic imagery.
14. Quote an example of plain language.
15. Explain the meaning of Paine’s metaphor, “Mutual fear is the
principal link in the chain of mutual love.” (page 111)
16. What is Paine’s main idea?
17. What powerful emotional appeal does Paine make at the end of the
essay?