The American Crisis

Paine often addresses his essays to specific figures or groups of people; two of his essays were addressed to the people of England. Explain what Paine hoped to accomplish in these passages addressed to English civilians.

In his essays, Paine frequently shames and insults “Tories,” or loyalists, with increasing harshness, while also trying to persuade them to join his cause. What makes his argument effective/ineffective?

How does Paine use notions of masculinity, duty, and honor to shame the British government and military? Provide examples from the text.