It is important to be able to effectively incorporate your sources through direct quotation. For this activity, you will use Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address to practice writing an essay while effectively incorporating quotations to help support your discussion.
For this activity, watch the following video in preparation for your assignment:
Schnall, P. (Director). (2014). Lincoln @ Gettysburg [Video file]. Public Broadcasting Service. https://video-alexanderstreet-com.csuglobal.idm.oclc.org/watch/lincoln-gettysburg
This video presents historical context for Lincoln at Gettysburg. Scholars will read the address and provide analysis. Pay close attention to the analysis as it will help you to formulate your critical thinking assignment this week.
After watching the video, you will write an essay and address the following points:
– What is a “proposition” in the sense that Lincoln uses it?
– What does it mean to “consecrate” a place?
– What is “hallowed” ground?
– The Gettysburg Address is short but very famous. He was the President, he could have spoken longer, and most speakers that day in fact spoke much longer speeches. He wasn’t pressed for time. He had time to prepare. A long speech was expected of him. Why do you think Lincoln kept it so short? (Hint: Where was he speaking and why? How did his “rhetorical situation” influence him?)
– Do you see any correlations from Douglass’ work to this work? If so, how do you see this occurring in the text? Be sure to quote from Douglass if you see a correlation.
You must accurately insert a quote in your analysis to provide in-text evidence from the address, and you must comment on the quote to demonstrate you are thinking in a critical manner.
Your paper should be 2-3 pages in length, not counting the title and reference pages, and conform to APA guidelines. Include at least 2 scholarly references.