One of the most inspiring Americans during the Enlightenment was Ben Franklin who was not only a great statesman, but a popular writer of world renown. One of the Franklin quotes that represents his patriotism at the crossroads of the American Revolution is, "Anyone who trades liberty for security deserves neither liberty nor security." In this quote, Franklin uses a simple rhetorical device, antithesis, a way of contrasting choices to engage the audience. While Franklin was a diplomat, he had exhausted all means to help the colonies reconcile their complaints against the "crown" (note that this is an example of metonomy"). His message is similar to other statesmen of the Revolutionary period, including Thomas Paine and Patrick Henry. (Remember the "sunshine patriot" and "Give me liberty or give me death"?)
Here is your assignment: Find other examples of antithesis from the Revolutionary period). After giving the quote, explain why you believe it represents an effective rhetorical device. Also, present the quote in historical context.
Remember, blog posts are required in Honors English 10 at Wetumpka High School. You may respond to this blog question, or one or more of those listed under Sept. 21 below. Only those blog responses which are responsive, correctly written, and appropriate will be posted. Note: To receive a passing grade for the post, your response must be publishable (i.e., include correct punctuation, no "texting jargon," etc.).
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I am currently reading “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck. I believe this book is an incredible recommendation for college-bound students. It shows that even though you might not think as well as others or comprehend very well, you can still dream big and survive in this life. This book has two main characters named George and Lennie. George is a small and quick man, dark of face with restless eyes and Lennie is the total opposite, he is a man shapeless of face, with wide shoulders and pale eyes. George and Lennie are trying to make it through this world on their own two feet; they have no friends and many enemies chasing after them. Lennie is a strong, slow man who does not get things like George. So George dedicates all his time to help Lennie. They work on a farm where no one likes them and everyone is out to get them, so they have to work. This book is a great recommendation because it shows that even when life gets hard and you are not blessed like everyone else you can still be your own person and make it through until the finish, just believe and dream big. The vocabulary used in this book is also very extraordinary and helpful to college-bound students. From this book, you could learn a lot that you do not already know.
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