The Unexceptional Eloquence of Sarah Josepha Hale's Lecturess.

This interpretation of Sarah Hale's 1839 novel The Lecturess is based on a recovery of traditions of women's successful public oratory. Hale's novel is viewed as an endorsement of women's public speech, provided it is done on behalf of the public good. Hale's publication in Godey's of 'Esther,' a coded closet drama, in 1838 also legitimates women's public speech.