Question

After analyzing Abraham Lincoln's "House Divided" and Patrick Henry's "Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death", determine and defend which speech is more effective due to the use of figurative language, rhetorical appeals and rhetorical devices. Provide textual evidence from both speeches to strengthen your argument.

Step 2: Read both speeches thoroughly to gain an understanding of how both Lincoln and Henry employed various appeals and devices. It is strongly recommended that you annotate each speech so you can see them side by side.

Answer 1

After analyzing Abraham Lincoln's "House Divided" and Patrick Henry's "Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death", it is clear that Patrick Henry's speech is more effective due to the use of figurative language, rhetorical appeals, and rhetorical devices. Henry’s speech provides vivid descriptions to stir the emotions of his listeners. For instance, he states “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?” This phrase paints a powerful image of slavery, which evokes fear and ultimately unites the audience against tyranny. Furthermore, Patrick Henry establishes an ethos by recounting various heroic feats from America’s past, thus giving his message a sense of legitimacy. Finally, Henry’s repetition of the phrase “give me liberty or give me death” creates a memorable refrain that sticks in one’s head. Abraham Lincoln’s speech certainly has its merits, but Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death” is the more effective piece of rhetoric due to its utilization of figurative language, rhetorical appeals, and rhetorical devices.