God and Heaven in A Lesson Before Dying
In Ernest J. Gaines's novel, A Lesson Before Dying, we learn about man, his suffrage, and his development. This novel is a story about man's soul and dignity. It is a story about a young mans soar to the peak of humanity and heroism. It is a novel of improvement and development. Jefferson, who has been sentenced to death for a crime he has not committed-once referred by his attorney a hog-learns how to become a man and gets off of his four legs and stands! This is a story of a kid's struggle and development into manhood. It is about a kid who becomes a hero for his people and his family. In this novel we learn that not only the soul, but also the nature of humanity and the dignity of mankind is needed. Henri Pichot, the white landowner, questions Miss Emma that, "At this point, I would be more concerned about his [Jefferson] soul if I were you," and she responds, "Yes sir, I'm concerned for his soul.... But I want him to be a man, too..." (22). It becomes Grant Wiggins's responsibility to teach Jefferson how to change his attitude and gain the courage to stand and reach salvation. Grant becomes responsible to help Jefferson walk towards death like a man, and does not have to do anything about
Religion in this novel is known as a device to relief pain. Reverend Ambrose tells Grant how God has been a source of relief from the grief and sorrow that people suffer from. God has been a source for salvation for people who have nothing but misery; religion has been a resource where people in times of sadness can hope for something better than the unhappy life they are living. When they don't have anything they turn towards God because he has promised them that after this life there is a better world. There is a place that they can have what others have, it is a place where everyone is equal and no man has more than another. In this world they are willing to suffer in hope of happiness in the other world. God gives mankind "love", which shapes Grant and Jefferson's friendship through out the story. It is Jefferson's love which opens Grant's eyes towards the world (225). It is Jefferson that raises Grant's cross (224). Reverend Ambrose makes Grant realize the importance of God's promise to man, and how man needs these hopes and promises to help him get up and reach out in times that he is down and has nothing left to hang on to. A Lesson Before Dying was a novel of development. Each character improved in his or her way. Mr. Wiggins learned more about the world and grew more sensitive to his surroundings. Vivian met new people and increased the quality of her relationship with Grant. Miss Emma finally got to see someone to stand for her. Tante Lou
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 997
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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