The Gettysburg Address

Worksheet Description

Step into the shoes of history and discover the power of anaphora in one of America’s most iconic speeches with this educational worksheet. The Gettysburg Address, delivered by President Abraham Lincoln, remains a cornerstone of American oratory, lauded not just for its content but also for its poetic and rhetorical mastery. Anaphora, the repetition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive lines or clauses, is one such device that Lincoln masterfully wielded to drive home his message.

This worksheet invites students to delve into the speech and identify instances of anaphora. By actively searching for these repetitions, learners can engage more deeply with the text, appreciating its rhythm, tone, and the emphasis that anaphora brings to specific ideas. Moreover, by analyzing Lincoln’s deliberate use of this device, students gain insight into the craft of speechwriting and the strategies orators employ to resonate with their audiences. This hands-on exploration serves as a valuable tool for both literature enthusiasts and history buffs, allowing them to experience the weight and beauty of words in a historical context.