Poems that were not poems...
Lincoln's Speeches |
The poems previously analyzed were written by the younger Abraham Lincoln. They certainly demonstrated a uniform style and structure, however, they would not be deemed by most literary experts to be very outstanding. But what of the older Lincoln? What can be seen in his later writings in the last five to six years before his death? These are the poems that were never written as poems, but have all the characteristics and structure of very polished poetry. They are speeches, but with closer scrutiny, they have solid foundations in what comprises great poetry.
Essential Question: What makes the following speeches great examples of the progress of Lincoln's literary style as an author/poet? Directions: Read and analyze each of the perspectives for the two practice examples: "The Address Before the Wisconsin State Agricultural Society" and "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address." Look at the examples of "Found Poetry" for each and study what scholars have stated about the speeches. Then, using the "Poetry Analysis Form," write your own analysis of Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address" as your final assignment, utilizing the insights of other scholars. In answering the essential question, direct your focus toward the "Gettysburg Address," however, you may incorporate aspects of the other two speeches as well. Poetry Analysis Form |