Lincoln found the language, the imagery, the myths that are given their best and briefest embodiment at Gettysburg. Prologue, Page 40

Everett's interest in battles and burials had a common element: the fad for ancient Greece. Chapter 2: Page 63

The dedication of Gettysburg must be seen in its cultural context as part of the 19th century's fascination with death in general and with cemeteries in particular. Chapter 2: Page 72

In the crucible of the occasion, Lincoln distilled the meaning of the war, of the nation's purpose, of the remaining task, in a statement that is straightforward yet magical. Chapter 2: Page 89

Clay and Webster were important symbols to Whigs of Lincoln's background. Coming from different regions, divided in temperament, made rivals by their similar ambition, they offered the hope that a slaveholding Southerner like Clay could agree with a New England celebrant of the Pilgrims like Webster on the importance of finding...