My Dear Hamilton

Biographical fiction often foregrounds themes of history and legacy. My Dear Hamilton emphasizes these themes through the characters’ focus on how they will be remembered. Hamilton, in particular, is concerned with the name he will pass down to his children. Eliza notes, “An honorable name. It’s all my husband ever wanted. And when his father hadn’t given it to him, he made one for himself out of nothing but sweat and courage. Now that name belonged to our children” (305), highlighting how much of Hamilton’s actions revolved around his desire for honor. When he considers how he can revive his reputation after his affair becomes public, Hamilton writes “The Reynolds Pamphlet” to portray it as a personal misstep rather than as a betrayal of his public duties. Hamilton thinks of his legacy even in his last moments, throwing away his shot in the duel with Burr so he will be considered innocent in the annals of history.

Eliza is equally concerned with how he will go down in history, not only because she believes he deserves to be remembered but also because she is concerned for her children’s reputations. Eliza risks her reputation, health, and happiness to make sure Hamilton’s name is protected and the nation can develop as they hoped.