American Literature
Choose TWO of the following passages. Identify the author of the passage. Next, identify the passage as a simile, metaphor, or allusion; then explain the significance of the passage – the meaning within the context of the work. If the passage is an allusion, be sure to identify the original reference.

1. Neither could they, as it were, go up to the top of Pisgah to view from this wilderness a more goodly country to feed their hopes . . . .

2. The wrath of God is like great waters that are dammed for the present; they increase more and more, and rise higher and higher, till an outlet is given; and the longer the stream is stopped, the more rapid and mighty is its course, when once it is let loose.

3. My imagination was all rapture as I flew to the Register Office: and, in this respect, like the apostle Peter, (whose deliverance from prison was so sudden and extraordinary, that he thought he was in a vision), I could scarcely believe I was awake.

4. Wars, without ceasing, will break out till that period arrives, and the continent must in the end be conqueror; for though the flame of liberty may sometimes cease to shine, the coal can never expire.