Question

crisis no. 1
thomas paine
these are the times that try mens souls: the summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. what we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: tis dearness only that gives every thing its value. heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods, and it should be strange indeed, if so celestial an article as freedom should not be highly rated. britain, with an army to enforce her tyranny, has declared that she has a right (not only to tax) but to bind us in all cases whatsoever, and if being bound in that manner, is not slavery, then is there not such a thing as slavery upon earth. even the suppression is impious, for so unlimited a power can belong only to god.
what is the purpose of the passage?
a
b
c

Explanation:

The passage by Thomas Paine is a call - to - action. It criticizes those who would shrink from the service of their country (the "summer soldier and sunshine patriot") and praises those who stand firm. It also makes a strong argument against British tyranny, comparing the British claim of unlimited power ("to BIND us in ALL CASES WHATSOEVER") to slavery. The overall tone and content suggest that it is intended to inspire the American people who were at odds with Britain at that time.

Answer:

C. To awaken the sleeping American fed with England at that time.