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Oration And Theater In The American Revolution: Equivalent Influences Or Separate Spheres, Deborah Zuk

History in the Making

During the American Revolution (1775–1783) public speaking and the theater were an important part of politics and society. However, the two mediums were viewed differently. Oration was a valued skill, while acting was scorned and even outlawed. This paper argues that both aspects of society were equally crucial to the American Revolution. They were both taught and trained in similar ways and used to push political agendas. This article examines the manuals and history of both oration and the theater and how their influences touch upon all levels of society. It concludes that oration and acting are equal in their …