Student Question
Who is the intended audience in the given passage from Thomas Paine's Common Sense?
No man was a warmer wisher for a reconciliation than myself, before the fatal nineteenth of April 1775, but the moment the event of that day was made know, I rejected the hardened, sullen tempered Pharaoh of England, for ever.... the wretch, that the pretended title of Father of his people can unfeelingly hear of their slaughter, and composedly sleep with their blood on his soul.
Quick answer:
The intended audience for this passage from Thomas Paine's Common Sense includes two groups. First, Paine addresses those undecided about supporting the Revolutionary War, aiming to persuade them to join the rebels by depicting King George III as an oppressive ruler akin to Pharaoh. Second, he targets existing rebels, seeking to strengthen their resolve by highlighting the king's perceived unjust actions, thereby ensuring their continued commitment to the rebellion.
There are two audiences for this passage.
First, Paine is writing it for people who are undecided about which side (if any) to take in the Revolutionary War. He is trying to persuade them to come to the side of the rebels just as he did after the Battles of Lexington and Concord. He is doing so by comparing King George III to Pharaoh, implying that he is oppressing a people and refusing to let them out of slavery. He is saying that the King does not act as a true ruler should. In doing so, Paine hopes to justify the rebellion and persuade others to join it.
Second, Paine is writing to stiffen the resolve of those who are on the rebels' side. He wants to remind them of what he sees as King George's unjust actions. By doing so, he wants to ensure that they remain committed to the rebellion.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.