In the excerpt you've provided, the rhetorical device primarily used is the question for dramatic effect. The author, Patrick Henry, employs this device to provoke thought and reflection among his listeners about the British ministry's actions over the past decade. By asking what conduct justifies hope, he emphasizes the absence of rational grounds for optimism and encourages the audience to reconsider their expectations for the future based on historical precedent. Thus, the purpose of using this device is to create urgency and compel the audience to recognize the gravity of their situation, ultimately leading to his call for action for liberty.
Give me liberty or give me death, what is the authors purpose for using the rhetorical device you identified in the excerpt
I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the house
Ask a question for dramatic effect
To make clear connection between past and future
To help readers understand the difference between judgement and justification
To explain a new idea using familiar terms
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