6 Questions
What rhetorical device did President Lincoln primarily use in his Second Inaugural Address to appeal to his audience?
Personification
How did Lincoln's use of allusions in his Second Inaugural Address contribute to his goal of unity?
By reminding both sides of their shared values
Which of the following best describes Lincoln's use of inclusive language in his speech?
Creating a sense of unity among all Americans
In Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address, what was the main purpose of appealing to his audience's emotions?
To foster empathy and understanding among the people
Which phrase from Lincoln's speech reflects an appeal to divine justice through personification?
'The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.'
Why did Lincoln use personification when discussing divine judgments in his speech?
To emphasize the righteousness and justice of God's actions
Study Notes
Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address: Rhetoric
In his Second Inaugural Address, President Lincoln sought to unite a divided nation after the Civil War. The President used rhetorical devices such as personification, allusions, and inclusive language to convey his message of unity and healing.
Personification
Lincoln's use of personification is evident when he says, "The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." This personification helps the audience connect the divine judgments to moral concepts, emphasizing the righteousness of the outcome and the justice of God's actions.
Allusions
Through allusions to religious texts, Lincoln sought to link the North and the South together. For example, he quotes "Woe unto the world because of offenses" and "The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." These allusions remind the two sides of their shared values and spiritual goals, rather than their deep divisions.
Inclusive Language
Lincoln used inclusive language to connect people to their common responsibility for the war and to move the nation forward towards reconciliation. He says, "With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in." The use of inclusive language ("us," "we," "ourselves") is intended to create a sense of unity among all Americans.
Appeal to Emotions
Lincoln's main rhetorical strategy was an appeal to his audience's emotions. This is evident throughout the address, particularly in his repetition of phrases such as "Fondly do we hope" and "Fervently do we pray." These phrases create a sense of hope and unity among the audience, inspiring them to strive for a better future.
In conclusion, Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address is a powerful example of rhetorical analysis. Through the use of personification, allusions, inclusive language, and an appeal to emotions, Lincoln sought to unite a divided nation and create a firm tone for rebuilding the country.
Explore the rhetorical devices used by President Lincoln in his Second Inaugural Address to unite a divided nation after the Civil War. Learn about personification, allusions, inclusive language, and appeals to emotions in this powerful speech.
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