A lesson before dying : chapter 28
This chapter represents the last visit to the cell told by the narrator, although it is not the last visit he makes to Jefferson. The day of the execution is coming nearer and nearer as it is due to take place in a fortnight.
So this is the opportunity for us to check the results of Grant’s strategy and to see if he has been successful or not in saving Jefferson and making him” regain his dignity of a man before he dies.
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The whole chapter consists in the visit, so it is a dialogue between the two main characters of the novel who are alone in the cell. A chronological study of the scene is not really relevant, and it may seem more interesting to focus on Jefferson’s state of mind a few days before his execution, and how Grant tries to help him. Finally, we will more closely examine the role that Jefferson is expected to play by his community, and what he thinks about it.
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GENERAL COMPREHENSION : MAIN FACTS
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When Grant next goes to visit Jefferson, he sees the notebook on the floor, next to the radio. He opens the notebook and finds that Jefferson has filled up three-quarters of the first page, though he clearly erased a great deal. He has written about dying, and about the difference between men and hogs. Grant asks him about Reverend Ambrose’s last visit. Jefferson says Ambrose told him to pray, but that he does not pray because he doesn’t know if heaven exists. Jefferson asks Grant if he prays and Grant replies honestly, saying he doesn’t because he doesn’t believe in anything. Grant says he feels lost. He tells Jefferson that he wants Jefferson to believe in something so that someday Grant can look to Jefferson as an example and start