Common sense paine6/21/2023 ![]() Paine also uses the metaphor of parenthood to argue that England has forfeited any respect it was owed as “mother” by acting oppressively toward its colonial “child.” Finally, he uses the “child” metaphor in a more positive sense by suggesting that America should take advantage of its youthful vigor in order to cultivate healthy habits of nationhood: “youth is the seed time of good habits a memorable aera for posterity to glory in.” In contrast to the heredity monarchy of Great Britain, what Paine portrays as an antiquated system, he encourages his readers to think of America as young and vital in its ability to be molded into a fair representative democracy. Paines words are strong and honest, he writes with courage, makes no apologies, asks for no forgiveness. For example, he argues that delayed independence keeps America in a state of perpetual childhood: “we may as well assert that because a child has thrived upon milk, that it is never to have meat” In this sense, he encourages his readers to be courageous and optimistic about independence, rather than fearing America’s failure without its current ties to Britain. Common Sense makes for straightforward reading. ![]() Paine uses the symbolism of parent and child to argue that America has outgrown its dependence on Great Britain and should seek independence. Common Sense THOMAS PAINE 1776 INTRODUCTION PLOT SUMMARY THEMES HISTORICAL OVERVIEW CRITICAL OVERVIEW CRITICISM SOURCES INTRODUCTION. ![]()
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