Episode Description:
While our Churchill Part 1 episode focused on some highlights from his life story and character, Part 2 focuses on a few of his famous speeches. An old saying goes “Talk is cheap,” but in Churchill’s case, his talks helped keep the British Empire and the cause of global freedom alive during World War II and thereafter. In this episode you will hear excerpts read from a few of Churchill’s key speeches, along with some explanations of the historical backgrounds of his speeches, thus putting them into a context for you. We will also discuss some of his masterful word choices and literary devices that gave his speeches such punch.
Word of the Day: defiance (noun) a strong-willed refusal to surrender or obey
Question of the Day: Is it possible for strong-willed defiance in a child to become a positive character quality in an adult? If so, how?
Listen to Episode 17 below:
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Check your listening ability.
1. Hitler folded like a cheap suit. This is an example of a(n) ___________.
A. exagerration
B. metaphor
C. simile
D. assonance
2. What was the name for the invasion later known as Hitler’s biggest mistake?
3. Is Prime Minister Churchill a personifcation of the phrase “talk is cheap?” Why or why not?
4. Churchill uses _____________ when he says “odious apparatus” and “flag or fail.” This is the repetition of consonants.
5. What is the tone throughout of Churchill’s speech in Paris?
6. What did psychologists predict would happen with the bombing of London?
A. people would be demoralized
B. it would tie up the army as policemen for Londoners
C. it would obliterate the city
D. survivor stories would strengthen the resolve of England
7. How did Poland lose World War II twice?
Answer Key:
1. C. simile
2. Operation Barbarossa
3. No, his speeches gave the British people great resolve and encouraged and empowered them to keep on fighting.
4. assonance
5. He begins with stark truth and bad news. He pivots to resolve, stating that events have no effect on England. He finishes with a bang, giving his hearers hope and encouragement.
6. B. it would tie up the army as policemen for Londoners
7. Poland was invaded by Germany in 1939. They were later liberated from the Germans by the Russians would instituted their own dictatorship.
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