Explain the analogy on the bottom of page 345: “Can ye give to prostitution its former innocence?” Be sure to note how this reference ties in with the point Paine is trying to make.
Sure. The analogy on the bottom of page 345 of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense is: “Can ye give to prostitution its former innocence?” This analogy is used to argue against the institution of monarchy. Paine is saying that just as prostitution can never be made innocent, so too can monarchy never be made just.
Paine is using the analogy of prostitution to make two points. First, he is arguing that prostitution is a fundamentally exploitative institution. The prostitute is forced to sell her body for money, and she is often treated with violence and contempt. This is similar to the way in which the monarch rules over the people. The monarch is essentially a prostitute, selling the people’s freedom and happiness for power and wealth.
Second, Paine is arguing that prostitution is a corrupting influence. The prostitute is forced to lie, cheat, and steal in order to survive. This corruption eventually spreads to the rest of society. Similarly, the institution of monarchy corrupts everyone involved in it. The monarch becomes arrogant and tyrannical, and the people become subservient and compliant.
The analogy of prostitution is a powerful one, and it is used to great effect by Paine. It helps to make his argument against monarchy clear and persuasive.
Here is how this reference ties in with the point Paine is trying to make:
Paine’s analogy is effective because it is both simple and powerful. It is simple enough for anyone to understand, but it is also powerful enough to make a lasting impression. The analogy of prostitution is a powerful reminder of the dangers of monarchy, and it is one of the reasons why Common Sense is such an influential work.
