Author profile

William Pittenger

1840–1904 · United States

An American soldier, lecturer and writer who turned extensive public-speaking experience into practical guidance on extemporaneous speech.

Language & Communication

Life and context

A short timeline

1840
Born in United States.
1883
Extempore Speech published.
Unknown year
Oratory Sacred and Secular; Or, The Extemporaneous Speaker: With Sketches of the Most Eminent Speakers of All Ages published.
1904
End of the author’s recorded life.

Recurring concerns

Themes and style

speech
preparation
confidence
delivery

Direct instructional prose combining historical examples, staged exercises and encouragement.

Available here

Works by William Pittenger

2 works in the Linden collection.

Language & Communication

Extempore Speech

William Pittenger

Language & Communication · B2–C1 · 6 hr

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Language & Communication

Oratory Sacred and Secular; Or, The Extemporaneous Speaker: With Sketches of the Most Eminent Speakers of All Ages

William Pittenger

Language & Communication · B2–C1 · 6 hr

Start Reading

Author FAQ

Where should I start?

Which William Pittenger book should I read first?

Explore Extempore Speech, then compare the lengths and subjects of the available works.

Is the author portrait historical?

This is a Linden original, historically informed editorial portrait—not an archival photograph. It is based on commonly documented appearance and period clothing; reuse status: Linden original artwork.