Read the excerpt from The Crisis, Number I. “’Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death. My own line of reasoning is to myself as straight and clear as a ray of light.”In this excerpt, Paine uses figurative language to
Answer
A
describe the physical effects of refusing to fight for independence.
B
emphasize Britain’s oppressive treatment of the colonists.
C
explain why independence is an important cause to him personally.
D
illustrate his unwavering belief that the colonists must fight for freedom.
Explanation
Paine compares his reasoning to “a ray of light” to suggest that his principles are clear, and he says he will follow them “unto death.” Together, these images emphasize his unwavering belief that the colonists must fight for freedom. The excerpt does not describe physical effects or focus on Britain’s treatment of the colonists.
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