The Last Full Measure Of A Man Quote
The phrase “the last full measure of a man” is attributed to Abraham Lincoln, who used it in his Gettysburg Address in 1863. However, the concept of giving one’s all, even unto death, has been a theme in literature and philosophy throughout history. The idea of measuring a man’s worth by his sacrifice, dedication, and service to others is a powerful one that has resonated with people for centuries.
The Origin Of The Quote
Abraham Lincoln used the phrase “the last full measure of devotion” in his Gettysburg Address, which he delivered during the Civil War. The speech was given on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Lincoln’s words were meant to honor the Union soldiers who had died in the battle there, and to inspire the living to continue the fight for their cause.
The full quote from the Gettysburg Address is:
"It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Lincoln’s words have become some of the most famous in American history, and they continue to inspire people to this day. The idea of giving one’s all, even unto death, for a cause or a principle is a powerful one that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Meaning Of The Quote
The phrase “the last full measure of a man” is often interpreted to mean the ultimate sacrifice, the giving of one’s life for a cause or a principle. However, the quote can also be seen as a call to service and dedication, to giving one’s all in pursuit of a worthy goal. The idea of measuring a man’s worth by his devotion to something greater than himself is a powerful one, and it has been a theme in literature and philosophy for centuries.
For some, the quote is a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and others who have given their lives in service to their country or their community. For others, it is a call to action, a challenge to give their best and to make a difference in the world.
The Importance Of Sacrifice
Sacrifice is an important theme in many cultures and religions. It is seen as a way to show devotion, to make amends for wrongs, or to gain favor with a higher power. Sacrifice can take many forms, from giving up something valuable to risking one’s life for a cause.
In the context of the quote “the last full measure of a man,” sacrifice is seen as the ultimate act of devotion and service. It is a way to show that one’s commitment to a cause or a principle is greater than one’s own life. Sacrifice can inspire others to follow in one’s footsteps, and it can be a powerful symbol of the values that one holds dear.
The Last Full Measure In Literature
The idea of measuring a man’s worth by his sacrifice and service has been a theme in literature for centuries. Many classic works of literature feature characters who give their all for a cause or a principle, even when it costs them everything they have.
One famous example is the character of Sydney Carton in Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. Carton sacrifices his own life to save the life of Charles Darnay, whom he resembles. His sacrifice is seen as a way to make amends for his wasted life and to redeem himself in the eyes of the woman he loves.
Another example is the character of John Proctor in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. Proctor sacrifices his own life to expose the lies and corruption of the Salem witch trials. His sacrifice is seen as a way to uphold his own integrity and to stand up for what he believes in.
The Last Full Measure In Philosophy
The idea of giving one’s all, even unto death, has also been a theme in philosophy throughout history. Many philosophers have written about the importance of sacrifice and service, and about the value of dedicating one’s life to a worthy cause.
One famous philosopher who wrote about sacrifice was Immanuel Kant. Kant believed that moral actions were those that were done out of a sense of duty, rather than for personal gain. He argued that the highest form of duty was to sacrifice one’s own happiness and well-being for the good of others.
Another philosopher who wrote about sacrifice was Friedrich Nietzsche. Nietzsche believed that sacrifice was a necessary part of the human experience, and that it was a way to overcome the limitations of the self. He argued that true greatness could only be achieved through sacrifice and dedication.
The Last Full Measure In Popular Culture
The idea of giving one’s all, even unto death, has also been a theme in popular culture. Many movies, TV shows, and songs have featured characters who sacrifice themselves for a cause or a principle.
One famous example is the movie Saving Private Ryan. The movie tells the story of a group of soldiers who are sent on a mission to rescue a soldier whose brothers have all been killed in combat. The soldiers risk their own lives to save Private Ryan, and many of them die in the process.
Another example is the song “The Last Goodbye” by Billy Boyd. The song was written for the movie The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, and it features lyrics about sacrifice and the importance of giving one’s all for a cause.
The Last Full Measure In Religion
The idea of sacrifice is also an important theme in many religions. In Christianity, for example, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is seen as the ultimate act of love and devotion. His death on the cross is seen as a way to redeem humanity and to bring salvation to all who believe.
In Islam, sacrifice is an important part of the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims sacrifice an animal as a way to show their devotion to Allah and to commemorate the story of Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his own son as a sign of his faith.
Conclusion
The phrase “the last full measure of a man” is a powerful one that has resonated with people for centuries. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have given their lives in service to their country or their community, and it is a call to action for those who want to make a difference in the world. Whether in literature, philosophy, popular culture, or religion, the idea of giving one’s all for a cause or a principle is a powerful one that continues to inspire people to this day.