explain lincoln's analogy of the usa and a house?

Question

from "a house divided" by abraham lincoln

Answer 1

Lincoln is describing the USA as one family, as one group of people who are "all in it together". It is like a house, a metaphor, for all of the people together. Sure families have issues, but when there is one huge issue, like slavery in America, then that household, that family, cannot get along. Someone has to give up their side of the argument. Something has to give.

Answer 2

For the purpose of Lincoln's speech, the dividing issue was slavery. The nation could not remain half free and have slave-holding. It is also important to know the source of his quote. Lincoln was quoting from the Book of Matthew. In 1858, his audience would likely have been familiar with the passage and quoting Jesus would surely give an air of authority to his argument.