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Cover of In The Boyhood of Lincoln: A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black Hawk

In The Boyhood of Lincoln: A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black Hawk

Written by Hezekiah Butterworth

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Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865

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About this book

"In The Boyhood of Lincoln" by Hezekiah Butterworth is a historical fiction work written in the late 19th century. The narrative focuses on the formative years of Abraham Lincoln, highlighting the character-building experiences and the influential figures in his early life, particularly a traveling schoolmaster named Jasper, who shapes the ideals of young Lincoln. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Jasper the Parable, a Tunker schoolmaster traveling through rural Indiana. As he makes his way to a school, he encounters various locals, including a young boy who informs him about the infamous schoolmaster Crawford, known for his strict discipline. Jasper arrives at the school just in time to witness a lively spelling class riddled with both humor and chaos, where we meet the tall, serious figure of Abraham Lincoln, a student there. The opening sets the tone for the intertwining of historical reality and fictional narrative that explores the themes of education, moral integrity, and the cultivation of character that will ultimately shape Lincoln into a pivotal figure in American history.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in In The Boyhood of Lincoln: A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black Hawk, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • uplifting
  • historical
  • educational

Hezekiah Butterworth's "In The Boyhood of Lincoln" is a late 19th-century historical fiction novel that delves into the formative years of Abraham Lincoln, reimagining the experiences and individuals who shaped his character. The narrative centers on the profound influence of Jasper the Parable, a wise Tunker schoolmaster, whose unconventional teaching methods and moral integrity leave an indelible mark on young Lincoln. Through a blend of historical context and fictionalized encounters in rural Indiana, the book explores themes of education, mentorship, and the cultivation of virtues essential for leadership. It ultimately aims to illuminate the origins of Lincoln's legendary wisdom and moral compass, presenting a didactic yet engaging portrait of a future American icon.

“"True wisdom, young Abraham, is not merely in the books, but in the heart that seeks truth and justice."”

Key themes

Education and Mentorship
This is the central theme, exploring how formal and informal education, particularly through the guidance of a wise mentor, shapes an individual's character and intellectual growth. Jasper's role as a Tunker schoolmaster who teaches through parables and moral example highlights the belief that true education transcends rote learning.
Character and Moral Integrity
The book emphasizes the cultivation of virtues such as honesty, diligence, empathy, and a strong sense of justice as foundational to a good life and effective leadership. Lincoln's boyhood experiences are presented as crucible moments that forge these qualities.
Historical Legacy and Destiny
Written decades after Lincoln's presidency, the book is infused with a sense of prescience, hinting at Lincoln's future greatness. It subtly suggests that his boyhood experiences and the lessons he learned were divinely or fatefully preparing him for his pivotal role in American history.

Worth discussing

How does Butterworth use the character of Jasper the Parable to illustrate the ideal qualities of a mentor? What makes his methods effective?

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