LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Hamilton, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Honor Theme Icon" />
Washington explains to Hamilton that he is stepping down as president—and that he wants Hamilton to write his final speech. Hamilton panics, especially when he realizes that Jefferson will now likely run for (and win) the office. But Washington is firm that “if I say goodbye, the nation learns to move on / it outlives me when I’m gone.”
Washington is shaping history…not by meddling, but by stepping away. The idea of a country “outliv[ing]” its founder parallels the familial metaphor found in “Dear Theodosia,” in which parents prepare their children to outlive them and build on what they’ve established.
Active Themes
Washington acknowledges his mistakes (“I am nevertheless too sensible of my defects not to think it possible that I have committed many errors”). While Washington sings his speech, Hamilton sings alongside him, capturing both the drafting process and the delivery of the speech.
This is one of Hamilton’s more selfless acts: though he is losing his closest ally, he still helps Washington find the words to define his history-making presidency. Again, Washington’s emphasis on mistakes reflects that forgiveness, patience, and even humility are key ingredients of democracy.
Active Themes
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