The American Crisis · Chapter
The Crisis II: To Lord Howe explained
Thomas Paine addresses Lord Howe directly, mocking his proclamation and authority as a British commissioner.
What happens
Thomas Paine addresses Lord Howe directly, mocking his proclamation and authority as a British commissioner. Paine argues that America cannot be conquered, criticizes the folly of monarchy, and calls for unity and independence. He contrasts the sword of war with the sword of justice, and emphasizes the natural right of America to self-governance.
Themes in this chapter
Freedom vs. Tyranny
Paine contrasts the sword of war (tyranny) with the sword of justice (freedom), arguing that rebellion against tyranny is justified.
Reason and Rebellion
Paine emphasizes that rebellion against tyranny is an act of reason, and that he who rebels against reason is a real rebel.
Unity and National Identity
Paine calls for love of union and cheerfulness for duty, asserting the dignity and sovereignty of the United States.
The Cost of War
Paine acknowledges the suffering of war but argues that the cause of liberty is worth the affliction.
Characters to notice
- Thomas Paine
Author of the Crisis, directly addressing Lord Howe and defending American independence.
- Lord Howe
British commissioner and military commander, recipient of Paine's critique and mockery.
- America
The colonies personified, portrayed as watchful, resilient, and determined to maintain independence.
- Britain
Represented by Lord Howe and the monarchy, depicted as tyrannical and misguided.
- George Washington
Mentioned as a figure of honor and leadership, contrasted with Lord Howe.
- George the Third
King of Britain, criticized as a tyrant and contrasted with the 'Defender of the Faith' title.
- Tories
Loyalists in America, derided as weak and misguided, supporting British rule.
- Congress
American governing body, asserted as having equal authority to the British Parliament.
Key passages
“he that rebels against reason is a real rebel, but he that in defence of reason rebels against tyranny has a better title to 'Defender of the Faith,' than George the Third.”
A person who defies logic is truly rebellious, but someone who defies oppression in the name of reason is more deserving of the title 'Defender of the Faith' than King George III.
Paine redefines rebellion as a rational and virtuous act against tyranny.
“The United States of America, will sound as pompously in the world or in history, as 'the kingdom of Great Britain'; the character of General Washington will fill a page with as much lustre as that of Lord Howe.”
The name 'United States of America' will be as grand in history as 'the kingdom of Great Britain,' and General Washington's reputation will shine as brightly as Lord Howe's.
Paine asserts the equal dignity and future glory of America and its leaders.
“What are salt, sugar and finery, to the inestimable blessings of 'Liberty and Safety!'”
What are trivial comforts like salt, sugar, and fancy clothes compared to the priceless gifts of freedom and security?
Paine argues that material goods are worthless without liberty.
