key term - Gettysburg Address

Definition

The Gettysburg Address is a brief but powerful speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, during the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This iconic speech is renowned for its eloquence and profound themes, emphasizing liberty, equality, and national unity, which resonate through its use of rhetorical devices and figurative language.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Gettysburg Address consists of just 272 words, yet it encapsulates the essence of American ideals.
2. Lincoln delivered the address at a time when the nation was deeply divided by the Civil War, aiming to inspire unity and resolve.
3. Key phrases from the address, such as 'a new birth of freedom,' highlight Lincoln's commitment to ending slavery and promoting equality.
4. The speech is often regarded as a defining moment in American history, reinforcing the principles of democracy and human rights.
5. Lincoln's use of parallel structure and repetition throughout the address enhances its emotional impact and memorability.

Review Questions

• How does Lincoln's use of anaphora in the Gettysburg Address enhance its emotional appeal?
  • Lincoln employs anaphora in phrases like 'we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow this ground' to create a rhythm that emphasizes the solemnity of the occasion. This repetition not only reinforces the message but also invokes a collective feeling among listeners, urging them to reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers. The emotional weight generated through this technique helps to deepen the audience's connection to the themes of sacrifice and remembrance.
• Discuss how metaphor is utilized in the Gettysburg Address and its significance in conveying Lincoln's message.
  • In the Gettysburg Address, Lincoln uses metaphor effectively to convey complex ideas simply. For instance, referring to the nation as a 'new birth of freedom' suggests a transformative moment in American history. This metaphor signifies not just physical survival after battle but also the rebirth of fundamental ideals such as liberty and equality. By using metaphor, Lincoln simplifies profound concepts and makes them more relatable for his audience, enhancing their understanding of the nation's purpose.
• Evaluate how rhetorical devices in the Gettysburg Address reflect broader themes of democracy and unity during a critical moment in American history.
  • The rhetorical devices used in the Gettysburg Address, such as parallelism and metaphors, underscore themes of democracy and unity at a pivotal time when the nation was torn apart by civil conflict. By emphasizing collective responsibility through phrases like 'government of the people, by the people, for the people,' Lincoln reinforces democratic ideals while calling for national reconciliation. These devices not only elevate his speech but also serve to rally support for a united America committed to equality and freedom for all, making it a timeless reflection on national identity.

Related terms

Rhetorical Questions:

Questions posed for effect rather than to elicit answers, used to engage the audience and provoke thought.

Anaphora:

The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences, creating emphasis and rhythm.

Metaphor:

A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as', often adding deeper meaning to the text.