Analyze Craft And Structure Second Inaugural Address Answer Key
Introduction
The Second Inaugural Address is one of the most famous speeches in American history. Delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on March 4, 1865, it was given just weeks before the end of the Civil War and Lincoln's assassination. The speech is known for its powerful language and its message of reconciliation and unity in the face of the terrible conflict that had torn the country apart. In this article, we will analyze the craft and structure of the Second Inaugural Address answer key.
Background
Before we dive into the analysis, let's take a moment to review the historical context of the speech. The Civil War had been raging for four years, and the Union was on the brink of victory. Lincoln had been re-elected in 1864, and his second term was about to begin. The country was deeply divided, and the wounds of the war were still fresh. Lincoln's speech was an attempt to heal those wounds and to lay the groundwork for a peaceful and prosperous future.
Craft
The craft of the Second Inaugural Address is masterful. Lincoln uses a variety of rhetorical devices to convey his message and to capture the attention of his audience. One of the most striking features of the speech is its use of parallelism. Lincoln repeats certain phrases and structures throughout the speech, creating a sense of rhythm and balance. For example, he begins several sentences with the phrase "both parties" and ends them with the phrase "let us judge not." This repetition creates a sense of symmetry and reinforces Lincoln's message of unity and forgiveness.
Another key aspect of the speech's craft is its use of imagery. Lincoln paints vivid pictures with his words, using metaphors and analogies to bring his ideas to life. For example, he describes the war as a "mighty scourge" and a "fiery trial," and he compares the suffering of the soldiers to a "great sacrifice" on the altar of freedom. These images are powerful and memorable, and they help to convey the depth of Lincoln's emotions and convictions.
Structure
The structure of the Second Inaugural Address is also noteworthy. The speech is divided into several distinct sections, each with its own focus and purpose. Lincoln begins by acknowledging the gravity of the moment and the terrible toll that the war has taken on the country. He then moves on to consider the causes and consequences of the conflict, reflecting on the role of slavery and the question of divine justice. Finally, he concludes with a call to action, urging his listeners to work together to rebuild the nation and to create a better future for all Americans.
One of the most striking features of the speech's structure is its use of biblical language and allusion. Lincoln was a deeply religious man, and his speech reflects his faith and his understanding of the Bible. He quotes from the book of Matthew and references several other biblical passages, using these references to underscore his message of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Second Inaugural Address is a masterpiece of American oratory. Its craft and structure are both remarkable, and its message of reconciliation and unity remains as relevant today as it was in 1865. By analyzing the speech and understanding its key features, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the genius of Abraham Lincoln and the enduring power of his words.
