Title: Lincoln and Literature: A Deep Dive into His Favorite Books and Penname Love
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, is a figure known for his contributions to American history through his speeches, his presidency, and his leadership during the Civil War. Outside of the public eye, Lincoln was a voracious reader, a master orator, and he even had an intriguing literary side that many are unaware of. In this article, we’ll explore Abraham Lincoln’s love for literature, his favorite books, and his penname – a side of the iconic president that we seldom get to glimpse.
First and foremost, Lincoln was a self-taught reader. He began teaching himself at a young age in a crude log cabin in rural Kentucky. He borrowed books from neighbors and even made his own copies by copying text from borrowed books by hand. His dedication to self-education would later shape his career as a lawyer and a politician.
Some of Lincoln’s favorite books included the Bible, Shakespearean plays, political treatises, and historical biographies. The Bible, specifically the King James Version, held a special place in his heart and he often quoted its verses in his speeches and personal letters. His love for Shakespeare is evident through his personal collection and his frequent references to the bard’s works in his speeches. Among his favorite plays were “Macbeth,” “Hamlet,” and “Henry V.”
Lincoln’s literary journey was not restricted to his personal reading, however. As a politician, he was known for his skillful use of language and his ability to craft compelling arguments. He often used his understanding of literary techniques to communicate powerful messages that resonated with his audience.
In his political career, Lincoln also utilized the art of pseudonyms or pen names, a common practice at the time. He used the pseudonym “Abraham Smith.” This penname was first seen in a series of articles published by the Sangamon Journal in Illinois, where he wrote political essays and poetry. He also used it later to publish a collection of poems titled “Life of Washington,” under the penname “John Doakes.”
Several factors may have influenced his use of a penname. One possibility is that the act of undergoing anonymity provided a certain level of freedom, allowing him to express his ideas without the immediate pressure of accountability. Another reason could be to symbolize a detachment between his personal thoughts and political decisions – a crucial balancing act for any public figure of his stature.
Now, let’s dive into an image of Abraham Lincoln – captured in his study, surrounded by books, a metaphorical representation of his life’s work. This image not only speaks volumes about his personal habits but also reflects his unyielding drive towards self-improvement and education.
![Abraham Lincoln in his study among books.]
As we reach the end of our exploration, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Abraham Lincoln’s relationship with literature.
FAQs:
1. What inspires Lincoln’s writing and speeches?
Abraham Lincoln drew his inspiration heavily from books, especially the Bible and Shakespeare. It influenced his beliefs, values, and, more importantly, his rhetorical techniques in constructing powerful speeches.
2. Was there any influence of Lincoln’s favorite books on his presidency?
Lincoln’s favorite books, especially the Bible and Shakespeare, served as guiding principles in his presidency. They not only shaped his leadership style but also helped him maintain morale during times of crisis, such as the Civil War.
3. Where can we learn more about Lincoln’s use of pennames?
A collection of Lincoln’s works can be found in various resources such as biographies, historical archives, and digital databases worldwide. Some notable resources include the Library of Congress, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and various online databases like JSTOR.
In conclusion, understanding Abraham Lincoln’s love for literature not only enriches our perception of the 16th president but also potentially transforms how we interpret his speeches, political ideology, and presidency. His favorites books undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the iconic leader, shaping the discourse of the Union during one of its most turbulent periods.
