Course Syllabus

This course explores the life and historical significance of Abraham Lincoln, one of the greatest nonfiction writers in English, through a close examination of his letters, speeches and other writings. We read and discuss Lincoln’s famous as well as little-known writings and explore the private and public man in historical context. We examine Lincoln’s evolution from his early poverty to aspiring poet and humorist, lawyer and reformer, Whig and Republican, into (arguably) the greatest president.

Lincoln’s writings engage the critical issues of his time—and ours: the purpose and function of government; federal versus local authority; meanings of freedom and equality; the status of blacks (and other minorities) in American society; civil liberties; and debates over a welfare state.

The course is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. It is designed to help students improve their reading, writing, public speaking, and research skills in addition to learning about Lincoln and the Civil War era. Classes are discussion format. One class (September 15) meets at Houghton Library and introduces students to Houghton’s extraordinary Lincoln collection.