Abraham Lincoln- "The Gettysburg Address" and "The Second Inaugural Address"

"The Gettysburg Address" is possibly one of the most significant speeches in American History, addressed by deserving president Abraham Lincoln. The speech adequately refers back to the developing nation; a nation which cracked under much pressure following its initial establishment. The nation, once deemed by absolute Democracy, had began to dilapidate as far a its political stance remains. The Founding Fathers believed in equality, liberty, and undeniable freedom. Because of this, support and pride in the United States reigned supreme. With Lincoln's ability to further improve the United States and its overall stance, social, economical, and political improvements were established. Lincoln began his significant speech with these words (Lincoln):

"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal" (Lincoln)

Because of this adequate introduction, evidence based upon Lincoln's relation and belief that the United States was founded upon factual ideals and freedom is aroused. With this introduction, the audience may see support on the behalf of the Founding Fathers, who established much prominence with their undeniable contribution to the establishment of America.

In relation to Realism, "The Gettysburg Address" displays Lincoln's unbelievable respect toward the soldiers who fought for their freedom; freedom which was promised by the Founding Fathers. Lincoln brings about actuality in his speech, by describing those who lost their lives. Because of this, a Realist representation of this prominent speech is established. Future speeches may model themselves off this, addressed to the ones who could not share in the victory. Lincoln speaks about dedication in this address. "that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion" follows his description of dedication. With this quote, the audience may uncover a valiant, yet realist depiction of the war. "The Gettysburg Address" provides adequate proof of the effort placed upon the soldiers and political officials throughout the war. Without this successful display of nobility, a large piece of devotion would be missing in correlation with the idealistic split in the United States.

Because Abraham Lincoln was president in the time in which Realism was prevalent, the Second Inaugural Address allowed for a clear depiction of the literary writing style. Lincoln addressed his presidency with a simplistic style. Although he used much simplicity in his writing, his speech remained undeniably impacting when compared to contrasting speeches. Lincoln addresses his support of slavery in his piece (Lincoln). Slavery, being a factual and controversial topic in this period, allows the audience to gain a Realist perspective of the United States and the altering society. By placing these various topics in his piece, Lincoln effectively gained the support of many Americans. By gaining this support, Lincoln provided a basis for reconstruction in the United States. In correlation with this re constructive period, Lincoln was able to propose ideals that would coexist with the Founding Father's intentions.

When speaking about factual material and policies, Lincoln can be commended for his nobility. Lincoln retains much characteristics of a hero. Because of this, it can be insinuated that Lincoln is a noble war-time hero, using his logical military strategies and political approach to effectively obtain reconstruction and victory. A heroic quality correlates with a Realist approach to writing. Although Lincoln is a noble war-time hero, the soldiers who devoted their lives to freedom can also be commended for their nobility and heroic actions.


Lincoln, Abraham. from "Second Inaugural Address." Glencoe American Literature. comp. Wilhelm, Jeffery. McGraw Hill. Columbus, OH. 2009. pg 339.