A Lesson Before Dying
A Lesson Before DyingErnest J. Gaines
Characters in A Lesson Before Dying
8 characters, main characters first.Main characters
Jefferson
A young Black man whose trial and death sentence place him at the centre of the story.
Grant Wiggins
The educated, bitter teacher who returns to his hometown and is asked, reluctantly, to visit Jefferson.
Supporting characters
Tante Lou
Grant's aunt, who raised him and urges him to take on the task Miss Emma asks of him.
Sheriff Guidry
The sheriff whose permission Grant and Miss Emma must obtain to visit Jefferson.
Miss Emma (A Lesson Before Dying)
Jefferson's godmother, who asks Grant to help him face what is coming as a man.
Vivian (A Lesson Before Dying)
Grant's girlfriend, a fellow teacher with children from her marriage.
Reverend Ambrose (A Lesson Before Dying)
The preacher who visits Jefferson in jail.
Paul Bonin
A white deputy who forms a bond with Grant.