A Lesson Before Dyingtopics And Rubrics Essay Example
A Lesson Before Dyingtopics And Rubrics Essay Example

A Lesson Before Dyingtopics And Rubrics Essay Example

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In A Lesson Before Dying, Ernest Gaines depicts numerous hints, clues, and symbolism connecting Jefferson and Jesus. While creating his character, Gaines establishes parallels between Jefferson and Jesus, highlighting their similarities. For instance, both Jefferson and Jesus perish around Easter, though their deaths are beyond their control.

Both Jefferson and Jesus were unfairly convicted and did not choose to be killed. The deaths of these two individuals held symbolic significance and were viewed as a setback for society and humanity. According to Gaines (156), Jefferson's execution was scheduled to take place on the second Friday after Easter. Moreover, during Easter, we commemorate and honor the crucifixion and demise of Jesus.

Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders

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of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed (Matthew 27:1). "Death by electrocution. The governor would set the date." (Gaines, 9).

Both in the book and in the bible, the deaths of these two men were not determined by a single individual. In A Lesson Before Dying, it was the gentlemen of the Jury who decided what would happen to Jefferson. Similarly, in the Bible, it was the chief priests and elders of the people who made the decision on how Jesus would be executed. I believe that the timing choice in the book is linked to Jesus' death since it took place around Easter. Even in the book, there was a desire from Sheriff for Jefferson's execution to occur during this time period, but conflicts arose due to lent and Easter celebrations and their impact on people's beliefs. "It had to be before or after Easter."

According t

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Gaines (156), both Jesus and Jefferson were unjustly convicted. The Bible demonstrates that despite being oppressed and afflicted, Jesus did not offer a defense for himself (Isaiah 53:7). Similarly, Jefferson's conviction was unwarranted since he happened to be in the incorrect location at an unfortunate moment.

"In Gaines' (7) analysis, it is asserted by the defense that Jefferson's only wrongdoing was being present at an unfortunate moment. This parallels Pontius Pilate's inquiry to the crowd in Jesus' situation, questioning their verdict on his fate. As recorded in Luke 23:22, he queries, 'Why? What offense has this man committed? I have found no justification for a death penalty. Therefore, I shall command him to be whipped and subsequently set free.'"

Pilate appears to be defending Jesus in a similar manner to the defendant in Jefferson's trial. He is attempting to understand what the jury desires and is also trying to save Jesus, as evidenced by the quote "Though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth" (Isaiah 53:9). Additionally, Pilate states, "But this man has done nothing wrong" (Luke 23:41). The fact that Mr. Grope only shot Brother and Bear serves as proof of Jefferson's innocence.

"(Gaines, 7). Both Jesus and Jefferson faced accusations and subsequently received death sentences, despite being perceived as innocent by some. In the context of the Old Testament, it was predicted that Jesus would be wrongfully convicted, just as Jefferson was convicted for a crime he did not commit. The deaths of these two men hold significant symbolism. Firstly, Jefferson's demise represents a setback for his endeavor to advocate for equality among blacks and whites, emphasizing that they should be

treated equally, as he asserts, "I want you to show them that you are as much a man – more a man than they can ever be."

"(Gaines, 192). And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39). Society underestimated both of these men, but they proved society wrong by standing strong till the end. "I don't know what you're going to say when you get back in there."

But inform them that he was the most courageous individual in the room on that day. I, Grant Wiggins, can testify to it. Please convey this message. ” (Gaines, 256) “After he had consumed the beverage, Jesus proclaimed, “It is completed. ” He then lowered his head and released his spirit.

"It is finished" (John 19:30). A Lesson before Dying, a meaningful book, highlights the similarities between Jefferson and Jesus. They both embody strength and resilience. Jefferson learns a valuable lesson - to face death with dignity and steadfastness until his last breath.

Both Jesus and Jefferson symbolized a loss to society, advocating for the rights of African Americans. Despite their innocence, both men faced death. Notably, both Jesus and Jefferson died around Easter. Moreover, they shared the tragic fate of being wrongly accused but displaying remarkable resilience until the end.

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