The adverb in the first line of the Gettysburg Address, “four score and seven years ago,” has captivated audiences for generations. This evocative phrase sets the tone for the speech, establishing its historical significance and the urgency of the message.
The adverb “ago” is a grammatical marker of time, indicating that the events being described occurred in the past. However, in the Gettysburg Address, it serves a more profound purpose. It transports the audience back to the founding of the nation, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the American experiment.
Context of Adverb in Gettysburg Address
Delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, the Gettysburg Address was a pivotal moment in American history. The speech, delivered at the dedication of a national cemetery on the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil War and the importance of preserving the Union.
The adverb “now” appears in the very first line of the Gettysburg Address: “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”
Lincoln’s use of “now” at the outset of his speech is significant for several reasons. First, it serves to ground the speech in the present moment, reminding the audience of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality. Secondly, it creates a sense of urgency, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issues of the day.
Grammatical Analysis of Adverb
In the Gettysburg Address, “now” functions as an adverb of time. It modifies the verb “brought forth,” indicating the point in time when the nation was founded. Grammatically, the phrase “four score and seven years ago” forms an adverbial phrase, which acts as an adverbial modifier for the verb.
Rhetorical Significance of Adverb
The adverb “now” plays a crucial rhetorical role in the Gettysburg Address. Its placement at the beginning of the speech establishes a strong and immediate connection with the audience. By invoking the present moment, Lincoln draws the audience into the speech and emphasizes the relevance of the topic to their lives.
Furthermore, the adverb contributes to the overall tone and mood of the speech. The sense of urgency created by “now” reinforces the importance of the message and emphasizes the need for action. It also helps to establish Lincoln’s credibility and authority, as it suggests that he is speaking from a position of deep understanding and conviction.
Historical and Cultural Impact of Adverb
The adverb “now” in the Gettysburg Address has had a lasting impact on American history and culture. It has been referenced and alluded to in numerous other historical speeches and writings, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and President John F.
Kennedy’s inaugural address.
The adverb’s enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the spirit of the moment and convey a sense of urgency. It has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality, and continues to inspire and motivate people to this day.
Contemporary Applications of Adverb
The adverb “now” remains a versatile and adaptable word that is still widely used in contemporary speech and writing. It can be employed to enhance clarity, emphasis, and persuasion.
For example, in the context of a business presentation, the adverb “now” can be used to highlight a particularly important point or to emphasize the need for immediate action. In a persuasive essay, the adverb can be used to draw attention to a key argument or to create a sense of urgency.
FAQ Guide: Adverb In The First Line Of The Gettysburg Address
What is the adverb in the first line of the Gettysburg Address?
The adverb in the first line of the Gettysburg Address is “ago.”
What is the grammatical function of the adverb in the first line of the Gettysburg Address?
The adverb “ago” is a grammatical marker of time, indicating that the events being described occurred in the past.
What is the rhetorical significance of the adverb in the first line of the Gettysburg Address?
The adverb “ago” establishes the speech’s historical context, conveys a sense of urgency, and underscores the speaker’s authority.
