Read the excerpt from The Crisis. Number I.

Question

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

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.

Answer 1

In the excerpt from "The Crisis. Number I," Paine uses figurative language to illustrate his unwavering belief that the colonists must fight for freedom. The phrases "little minds to shrink" and "heart is firm" suggest a clear distinction between those who are afraid and those who are steadfast in their principles. Additionally, the metaphor of reasoning being "as straight and clear as a ray of light" emphasizes clarity and determination in his convictions. Therefore, the correct answer is:

D. illustrate his unwavering belief that the colonists must fight for freedom.