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Theme Of A Lesson Before Dying

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Considering A Lesson Before Dying the author’s handling of each character’s power or subservience, which therefore creates power imbalances, within a critical triad of the novel influences the author’s purpose with regards to theme. A critical triad from the novel includes Grant Wiggins, Tante Lou, and Miss Emma. These characters each have specific powers in the triad which work together towards the overall theme of the novel. These three characters often were seen working towards the common goal to make Jefferson into a man, overcome colored stereotypes,and go against what the white man wants.
Grant Wiggins is the teacher in the novel as well as a very powerful character. Grant Wiggins legitimate power, with his title as a professor, has a vital role in the triad. He also possesses the power of information and expertise in his teaching field. Both Grant Wiggins and Jefferson are both black men so they can connect as men of color to one another. …show more content…

The white man? You want him to win?”(Gaines 84).
Tante Lou, the second part of the triad, has different power from Grant. Tante Lou has coercive power which allows her to influence people's decisions by punishment or forced power. Since Tante Lou is Grant’s aunt, she is using her maternal influence with Grant to visit Jefferson in the prison.
“But if you need me to hold your hand, I’d be glad to go,” my aunt said (Gaines 43).
When the aunt says this she is referring to going to Henri Pichot’s house where Grant feels he is under his control but is forced to go by his aunt.
“He’s going,” my aunt said (Gaines 18).
Tante Lou is in control of Grant on the decision to go to the

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