Lincoln's Gettysburg address

By A. E. Elmore

Book Description

This illuminating study reveals how America's most revered president drew upon sacred texts to craft one of history's most powerful speeches. A.E. Elmore presents compelling evidence that Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address was profoundly shaped by the King James Bible and the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer, challenging the conventional view that classical references were Lincoln's primary inspiration.

Through meticulous chapter-and-verse analysis, Elmore demonstrates how Lincoln transformed the timeless language of these religious sources into something approaching oratorical perfection. The author traces specific words and phrases—conceived, brought forth, consecrate, dedicate, hallow, devotion, new birth—back to their biblical and liturgical origins, showing how Lincoln imbued his speech with meanings that would deeply resonate with his audience's spiritual understanding.

Beyond religious influences, this investigation explores how Lincoln skillfully appropriated language from his political opponents, including John C. Calhoun, to advance his vision of equality and human dignity. The result was a masterful synthesis that promoted both his antislavery agenda and what Elmore calls "the gospel of equality."

This engaging analysis offers fresh perspectives on literary allusion, biblical literacy in Lincoln's era, and the intersection of faith and politics. Readers interested in the power of sacred language to inspire social transformation will discover how one leader's deep spiritual grounding enabled him to speak words that continue to move hearts and minds today.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)

📄 Length: 265 pages

What You'll Discover

✓ Explore Lincoln, abraham, 1809-1865, gettysburg address
✓ Deepen your prayer practice
✓ Explore Episcopal Church
✓ Explore Christianity and politics
✓ Explore Political culture
✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
✓ Explore Oratory
✓ Explore Bible, versions, english

Topics Covered

Lincoln, abraham, 1809-1865, gettysburg address Episcopal church, book of common prayer Episcopal Church Christianity and politics Political culture Bible Oratory Bible, versions, english Language History