Compare and contrast the word choices of Jefferson and Paine. How does each author’s word choice contribute to the tone?
Thomas Jefferson and Thomas Paine both use strong rhetoric to support American independence, but their word choices create very different tones. Jefferson employs formal, sophisticated, and legalistic diction in the Declaration of Independence, using terms like 'unalienable' and 'rectitude' to create an authoritative and logical tone. In contrast, Paine uses more accessible, emotional, and vivid language in 'The Crisis,' employing metaphors like 'the summer soldier' and 'the sunshine patriot.' Paine's word choice creates a passionate and urgent tone intended to inspire immediate action and moral courage in his audience.
All of the following elements are part of a strong response. Select all of the elements that you included in your response.
Who is the audience for this text?
What type of language should be used in a critical analysis essay?
Question text not available
✔ analyzes the purpose of governmentsupports independencesuggests independence
✔ formal English and classical argumentative structureregular words and argumentative structureinformal English and an argument
gives some tips foroffers ideas about what he calls✔ suggests that the colonies should have
✔ references his mistreatment of the American coloniessuggests that the king is badhighlights the king’s less-than-ideal behavior
ignore the king and live life✔ reject the king’s authority and revoltstop arguing and make peace
easy answerright solution✔ logical solution
✔ by extensionmaybesort of
Amazingly✔ ThankfullyUnfortunately
✔ diverse cultural perspectivesother kids’ heritagesvarious traditional things
mainstream group of books✔ traditional literary curriculumnormal reading for school
bigger poolbunch✔ wider range
stench✔ fragrancestink
decentbig-name✔ famous
✔ translucentcloudysee-through
✔ sizzleheat upget hot
Did you find these answers helpful?