The first reading should, if possible, be assigned for one lesson so that the class may read the oration at a single sitting.
The second reading should be accompanied by memory work, the preparation of an outline, the writing of compositions (some intended for speaking), and the study of introduction, conclusion, and climaxes.
CONTENT.--A description of the scene from the point of view of Webster.
The same from the point of view of one of the listeners.
How did the orator try to arouse the interest and emotion of his audience in his introductory paragraphs?
The emotions that Webster appeals to in his address to the veterans.
The example of Salem when the port of Boston was closed.
The spirit that bound the colonies together in their struggle.
"A chief distinction of the present day is a community of opinions and knowledge amongst men in different nations, existing in a degree heretofore unknown."
Compare our own day with Webster's in this respect.
The causes of the French Revolution compared with those of the American Revolution.
What reasons can you find for the almost entire lack of such excesses in our own?
The story of the Greek Revolution, 1820-29.
When and why had the Spanish colonies in South America revolted?
What conditions among these colonies gave Webster some doubt of their great success?
To what extent has history shown his doubt to be well founded?
The conclusion of the Oration, its idea and its appeal to the feelings.
FORM.--The purpose of the introductory paragraphs. Compare, if possible, with that of some other introduction.
Discuss Lodge's statement that this Oration is "a succession of eloquent fragments."
Between which of the main divisions, if any, is there a clear connection in thought?
Between which, if any, is there a transition paragraph?
Choose a number of paragraphs, for example, 8, 9, 12, 21, 28, 29, and make an analysis to discover the topic sentence, if there is one, and the method of development.
What figure of speech is strikingly illustrated in paragraphs 13 and 14?
Examine the most emotional passages like paragraphs 12-17 to note the sentence structure and choice of language.
THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF THE AUTHOR.--What do we know of Webster's parentage? his boyhood? his college life? his experience as a schoolmaster? the beginning of his career as a lawyer? his rapid success? his first term in Congress? his success as an orator? the importance of his work on the Dartmouth College case? his position on the great questions between North and South? the effect on his reputation of his Reply to Hayne? the effect on his reputation of his seventh of March speech? the great traits of his character?