Rhetorical Strategies in Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address

Essay, Pages 3 (728 words)

Views

1588

Introduction

Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address stands as a remarkable piece of oratory delivered during a pivotal moment in American history. By employing a range of rhetorical strategies, Lincoln aimed to unify a deeply divided nation, four years into the Civil War, and on the cusp of its conclusion. This essay delves into the artful use of rhetorical devices such as allusion, parallel structure, and diction in Lincoln's address, illustrating their role in fostering unity between the North and the South.

Don't use plagiarized sources. Get your custom essay on

“ Rhetorical Strategies in Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address ”

Get custom paper

NEW! smart matching with writer

Religious Allusion - Finding Common Ground

Lincoln's address ingeniously incorporates religious allusions to highlight shared values between the North and the South. By invoking God and the Bible, Lincoln underscores the spiritual bedrock upon which both sides stand, transcending their political and regional divisions.

Lincoln astutely points out, "Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other." In a deeply religious era, this reference resonated profoundly with his audience. It reminded them that, despite their differences, they shared a common faith and moral foundation.

Lincoln's use of religious allusion was a persuasive tool in emphasizing their shared spiritual heritage, fostering unity through faith.

Furthermore, Lincoln's reference to "let us judge not, that we be not judged" draws from the Bible (Matthew 7:1), underscoring the importance of humility and refraining from judgment. This call to humility encourages both sides to lay aside their grievances and animosities, creating an atmosphere conducive to reconciliation and healing.

Parallel Structure - Articulating a Common Purpose

Lincoln's masterful use of parallel structure plays a pivotal role in articulating a shared vision and purpose for the nation.

This rhetorical device enhances the resonance of his message and emphasizes the common goals that unite both the North and the South.

Lincoln's repetition of the phrase "to see the right" and "to bind up the nation's wounds" serves to underscore his unwavering commitment to these objectives. This parallel structure not only reinforces the importance of unity and healing but also highlights the symmetry of his vision for the nation. By using parallelism, Lincoln encourages his audience to recognize the shared aspirations that transcend regional differences.

Moreover, Lincoln's use of parallel structure in the passage "to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations" underscores the interconnectedness of these goals. By presenting these objectives in parallel, he reinforces the idea that peace, veterans' welfare, and the nation's future are inseparable components. This strategic use of parallel structure strengthens the notion that both sides must collaborate to attain a just and lasting peace.

Diction - Emphasizing Collective Responsibility

Lincoln's choice of diction plays a crucial role in emphasizing collective responsibility and shared experiences, reinforcing the idea that both sides are integral to the nation's healing process.

Lincoln's use of the word "both" is noteworthy, as it repeatedly appears in phrases such as "Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God" and "let us strive on to finish the work we are in." This intentional repetition of "both" underscores the idea that the North and the South are not adversaries but partners in the process of healing and rebuilding. It reinforces the notion that both sides have a stake in the nation's future and must work collaboratively to achieve common goals.

Furthermore, Lincoln's frequent use of "us" and "we" throughout the address fosters a sense of shared responsibility. By employing inclusive language, he unifies the audience and encourages them to see themselves as part of a collective effort. This deliberate choice of diction nurtures a sense of togetherness and underscores the idea that the nation's fate is intertwined, emphasizing the need for unity and reconciliation.

Conclusion

Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address is a remarkable testament to the power of rhetoric in times of profound national division. Through the strategic use of religious allusion, parallel structure, and carefully chosen diction, Lincoln effectively bridges the gap between the North and the South, emphasizing their shared values and common goals. His address transcends political discourse, offering a profound message of healing, reconciliation, and collective responsibility. Lincoln's rhetorical mastery in this speech remains a timeless example of leadership and statesmanship, demonstrating how language can inspire unity and hope during times of division and uncertainty.