Ralph Waldo Emerson's 'Concord Hymn' commemorates the Battle of Concord, a pivotal event in the American Revolutionary War. The poem, recited at the dedication of a monument in 1836, captures the spirit of the Minutemen and the transcendentalist ideals of freedom and remembrance. It highlights the courage of those who fought and the importance of preserving their legacy through memorials and oral traditions.
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The poem is set in the 18th century during a time of increasing tension between the American colonies and Great Britain
Minutemen
The poem references the formation of militias, specifically the Minutemen, who were ready to fight at a moment's notice
British Targeting of Concord
The British targeted Concord for its military supplies and strategic position, leading to the Battle of Concord
Outcomes of the Battle of Concord
The battle resulted in American casualties and marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War
In 1836, a monument was erected at the North Bridge in Concord to commemorate the Battle of Concord
Request to Compose a Poem
Emerson, a prominent local figure, was asked to write a poem for the dedication ceremony of the monument
Concord Hymn
Emerson's poem, "Concord Hymn," was recited and sung during the dedication ceremony
War and Courage
The poem explores themes of war and courage, highlighting the bravery of the Minutemen
Importance of Remembrance
Emerson emphasizes the importance of commemorating historical events to preserve their significance for future generations
Four Stanzas
"Concord Hymn" is divided into four stanzas, each contributing to the overall message of the poem
Use of Common Meter
The poem follows a common meter, making it easily adaptable to familiar hymn tunes
The poem reflects the principles of Transcendentalism, a philosophical movement that values individual intuition and nature over tradition and authority
The Shot Heard Round the World
The poem's use of this phrase has become a lasting symbol of the American Revolution
Rich Figurative Language
Emerson's use of figurative language, such as portraying the battle as a spiritual event, adds depth and significance to the poem
00
The ______ ______, a group of New England farmers ready to battle swiftly, were pivotal in the early stages of the conflict, particularly during the skirmish at ______.
Minutemen
Concord
01
On ______ ______, ______, British troops faced colonial forces in Lexington, with the confrontation leading to American losses, before moving to ______ where they encountered significant opposition.
April 19
1775
Concord
02
Concord Monument Commemoration Year
1836, marking 61 years since the Battle of Concord.
