The Mind of Abraham Lincoln: An Immersive Seminar SOLD OUT

The Mind of Abraham Lincoln: An Immersive Seminar

Louis Masur / Rutgers University

Any thinking American is drawn to Abraham Lincoln. His story invites us to marvel at how this poor, self-educated, frontier lawyer transformed himself into a political leader who defended democracy, preserved the nation, and abolished slavery. As late as 1859, when asked to provide an autobiographical sketch, he mused there was not much to say because “there is not much of me.” If not much then, there would be plenty ahead.

To understand Lincoln, we must read him. This class provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in Lincoln’s writings and to explore his ideas in seminar fashion, as we might in an advanced undergraduate course. Professor Lou Masur will provide biographical information and context. Much of the time in this class will be devoted to discussion and analysis. Members of the seminar will receive a packet of writings and will be asked to read the material before class. These readings include some of Lincoln’s most important speeches and writings—debates with Stephen Douglas, the First and Second Inaugural, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address —as well as some less known but important works.

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