President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln discuss his recurring haunting dreams and her lingering physical pain from a carriage accident. The conversation shifts as Mary astutely realizes that Lincoln is planning a risky political maneuver to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, warning him not to squander his public support on a likely defeat.
LINCOLN: I could be bounded in a nutshell and count myself a king of infinite space...were it not that I have bad dreams. I reckon it's the speed that's strange to me. I'm used to going a deliberate pace.
MARY: I don't want to be spared if you aren't! And you spare me nothing. Perhaps perhaps it's the assault on Wilmington port. You dream about the ship…
LINC…
Format: Duologue · Genre: Drama · Source: Lincoln · Author: Tony Kushner · Characters: Lincoln, Mary
This intense two-minute duologue, "Mary's Boudoir — The Thirteenth Amendment," offers a powerful look into the private world of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln. Set during a pivotal moment in American history, the scene delves into their complex marital dynamics amidst the immense pressure of the Civil War and the fight for abolition. It reveals their shared burdens, individual struggles, and the profound connection that underpins their relationship, even when faced with stark disagreements.
Lincoln in this scene is burdened by his dreams and the political maneuvering required to pass the Thirteenth Amendment. He shows vulnerability by confiding in Mary, but also a strategic mind, deflecting her initial inquiries before she uncovers his true intentions. Mary demonstrates remarkable perceptiveness and strength; despite her personal suffering, she quickly discerns Lincoln's motivations. She is fiercely protective of him and deeply understands the political landscape, offering a unique blend of personal concern and astute political counsel.
This duologue is an excellent choice for auditions due to its rich emotional content and the intricate relationship dynamics it presents. Actors can showcase their ability to navigate complex dialogue, subtle power shifts, and deep emotional resonance, transitioning from personal confession to political strategy within a short timeframe. The scene allows both actors to display vulnerability, intelligence, and intensity, making it ideal for demonstrating a wide range of acting skills in a contemporary, engaging context.
This scene is ideally suited for actors in the 45-55 age range seeking dramatic material that explores historical figures with contemporary relevance. It’s perfect for those comfortable portraying leading man or leading lady types, as well as actors who can embody authority figures or matriarchal/patriarchal roles with gravitas and emotional depth. Its historical setting but modern tone makes it versatile for drama school auditions, self-tapes, and general practice, especially for those who excel at portraying high-stakes political drama intertwined with personal struggles.
When performing this scene, focus on the subtext of each line, understanding that their personal pain and political ambitions are deeply intertwined. For Lincoln, harness his weary, burdened quality, using subtle shifts in his demeanor to reveal his true agenda. For Mary, emphasize her sharp intellect and emotional depth, allowing her physical pain to inform her emotional responses, but ultimately project her strength and insight. Pay close attention to the rhythm of their interruptions and the growing intensity as Mary uncovers Lincoln’s plan, ensuring that the stakes feel incredibly high for both characters.