THOMAS PAINE'S "COMMON SENSE"

READING GUIDE:

Read the pamphlet quickly. Do not try to capture every word or every nuance. Get the sense of what Paine is urging the colonists to do. It may help to think about the following questions as you read. 

1. Does Paine present a compelling argument for an American declaration of independence? What are his best and most convincing assertions that might lead someone to be for the patriot cause?

2. Discuss Paine's view of the connection between religion and government.

3. A loyalist is someone who wanted the colonies to remain British. Loyalists were against the American Revolution and thought the colonies were better off solving their problems and being loyal British subjects. How do you think a loyalist would react to Paine's arguments? 


THIS READING MUST BE COMPLETED BY WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9TH. Come to class with the book and ready to discuss!