Abstract

The Function of Symbolism in Ernest J. Gaines’s ‘A Lesson Before Dying’

Zaynab Layth Abdul Jabbar

Volume: 13 Issue: 1 2023

Abstract:

Although Ernest J. Gaines’s A Lesson Before Dying writes with meticulous realism, he uses significant symbols as to enhance its theme. The present paper examines the importance and the indication of such symbols especially those represented by Jefferson and Paul, and how they help convey the message of the work, which is considered by many Gaines’s masterpiece. From a dehumanized, “hog” to a “Christ-figure”, Gaines was able to deconstruct the myth of the white supremacy and reconstruct the black hero. He also uses other symbols that are important as to the development of its protagonist-narrator, Grant Wiggins.

DOI: http://doi.org/10.37648/ijrssh.v13i01.008

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