Key Terminology
prolepsis- the anticipation of possible objections in order to answer them in advance (m-w.com)
vernacular- using a language or dialect native to a region or country rather than a literary, cultured, or foreign language (m-w.com)
vernacular- using a language or dialect native to a region or country rather than a literary, cultured, or foreign language (m-w.com)
Necessary Background
Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation took full effect on January 1, 1863. However, the decision to free slaves through Executive Proclamation was very controversial. Many Americans believed that that Lincoln's action extended beyond his Executive powers. Americas' fear of abolition was rooted in racist beliefs and/or economic concern regarding additional competition for jobs. A leading Republican Party figure, James C. Conkling, invited Abraham Lincoln to speak at a Union meeting. Instead of attending, Lincoln wrote a letter to decline the invitation and explain his views on the Emancipation Proclamation. Lincoln instructed Conkling to read the letter to the assembly.
The Conkling Letter
Lincoln defends his Emancipation Proclamation and the arming of Black troops as a justified war measure to end the Civil War.
Close Reading Document and Screen Cast Videos
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Task:
1) identify and describe Lincoln's thesis statement (argument) as well as (at least) three supporting details (be prepared to explain your reasoning in a class discussion)
2) identify and explain examples of Lincoln
AND
4) how the historical context influence Lincoln's argument
2) identify and explain examples of Lincoln
- using prolepsis and the common vernaular
AND
4) how the historical context influence Lincoln's argument
Impact and Significance
The most consummate rhetorician never used language more pat to the purpose…and still there is not a word in the letter not familiar to the plainest plowman."
- The New York Times
Mr. Lincoln exonerates himself from the crimes urged against him, shows the untenableness [sic] of the position that his enemies occupy, and gives the world assurance that that great measure of policy and justice, which, while it strikes a fatal blow at treason and rebellion, guarantees freedom to three million of Slaves, is to remain the law of the Republic.”
-The Chicago Tribune