American Roots: From Native Traditions to the American Revolution — Test
Question 19 • Literature and Composition III
Read the excerpt from Common Sense. “ To talk of friendship with those in whom our reason forbids us to have faith . . . is madness and folly. ” Paine uses the words “madness and folly” to emphasize that the colonists
Answer
A
must be careful in their dealings with the king because he has gone mad.
B
are unwise in attempting to achieve a positive relationship with Britain.
C
are not allowed to have a positive relationship with Britain.
D
must continue to try to build a relationship with the king.
Explanation
Paine calls it “madness and folly” to speak of friendship with people whom reason says cannot be trusted. He is arguing that the colonists are unwise to keep trying to achieve a positive relationship with Britain. The phrase criticizes their judgment; it does not mean the king himself has gone mad or that friendship is forbidden.
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