Oratory Sacred and Secular; Or, The Extemporaneous Speaker: With Sketches of the Most Eminent Speakers of All Ages

"Oratory Sacred and Secular; Or, The Extemporaneous Speaker" by William Pittenger is a comprehensive instructional guide on the art of public speaking, written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on the principles and techniques essential for effective extemporaneous speech, particularly in the context of preaching, while also emphasizing the importance of preparation and self-improvement. It includes profiles of eminent speakers throughout history, thus combining practical advice with inspirational examples. The opening of the book introduces the purpose of the text, which is to assist individuals, especially those in the ministry, in mastering the art of extemporaneous speaking. Pittenger reflects on his own experiences of struggling with public speaking and expresses his desire to provide a resource that could have eased that journey. He discusses the advantages and disadvantages of written versus spoken discourse, laying the foundation for the content that will follow, which emphasizes the necessity for intellectual competency, emotional engagement, and a profound understanding of one's subject matter in the pursuit of eloquence. The introduction also hints at the significance of personal growth through the process of public speaking, suggesting that effective oratory comes from a combination of thoughtful preparation and genuine emotion.