A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines

Theme: “It is heroic to resist and defy the expected.”

Protagonist’s name: Grant Wiggins

Overall story goal: For Grant to impart his learning and his pride to Jefferson, a young black man who has been wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to death

Protagonist’s personal goal: To escape the quarter and marry Vivian

Protagonist’s dream: To prove to whites that blacks are equal

What stands in his way? Grant’s fear and secret, and Jefferson’s resistance

What does he or she stand to lose if not successful (risk)? The respect of his aunt, Jefferson’s godmother, his community, and the woman he loves

What is his or her flaw or greatest fault? His inclination to run away from conflict and unpleasantness or anything he might fail at accomplishing

What is his or her greatest strength? His intelligence and compassion

What does he or she hate? Plantation school, teaching, running in place

What does he or she love? Vivian

What does he or she fear? That he will fail

What is his or her secret? That his mentor is right—that those who do not run away from the quarter will die a violent death or be brought down to the level of beasts.