Question

Though one is in jail and one is not, what similarities exist between Jefferson’s and Grant’s situations? What do they need to be human? Include 2 pieces of relevant text evidence in your response.

Answer 1

• Both Jefferson and Grant from "A Lesson Before Dying" are in tough situations, even though Jefferson is in jail and Grant is not. They both feel trapped and limited, and they both deal with how people treat them. Jefferson is called a "hog" and Grant talks about being treated unfairly because of his skin color. They both struggle to feel like they matter. Jefferson's godmother wants Grant to help him find dignity before he dies, and Grant himself wants to teach his students to be proud of who they are. Both Jefferson and Grant want to be seen as human and treated with respect.