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A Lesson Before Dying
Chapter 24-26
Instructions: Answer all parts of the following questions thoroughly..
Chapter 24
1. Find the evidence (at least three examples) that Gaines, the author, uses to show the
reader how Grant is reminded that he is a black man.
2. (189) Find the example of sarcasm. Why do people use sarcasm—list two reasons?
3. (190) “No, ma’am. That was good,” I said, glancing at her. I didn’t want to look at her
too long. I knew what I would find in her face, and I didn’t want to see it.
What does Grant think that he would find? Explain why you think this.
4. Grant asks Jefferson what two words mean. Provide Grant’s definition for each of these
words.
a. Myth:
b. Hero:
Why do you think that Grant would choose to bring up these words, as opposed to others?
5. (192) Find the allusion. Explain how it is an allusion.
6. (193) What are Grant’s true, honest thoughts about what Jefferson means to him and
about himself?
7. (193) Find the metaphor. Explain how it is a metaphor.
Chapter 25
8. Explain possible reasons why the Reverend would be envious.
9. (199) Find the example of personification.
10. (200) Find the example of an allusion to literature. (This could also be considered a
____________--explain.)
11. (200) Find the simile. What two things are being compared?
12. (201) Find the simile. What two things are being compared?
Chapter 26
13. (205) What does Grant say that shows that he is comparing himself to Jefferson? What
does this show about Grant’s character?
14. (206) For what could Vivian be fired? Why could she be fired for this?
15. (208-209) Explain specifically why Vivian is mad. What are the obvious reasons and
what are the underlying reasons?
16. (210) What is the anaphora? What purpose does it serve?