How Did Grant Change In A Lesson Before Dying

The book A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines, published in 1993, follows a story about how one black teacher (Grant), and a black man accused of murder (Jefferson), work together to change the history of their community by showing dignity, sacrifice, redemption, and legacy. The changes in Grant throughout the book are how he shifts from having no consideration and hardly caring, to becoming more determined, and lastly, becoming completely confident and hopeful.

At the start of the book, Grant proves that he has no consideration for not just Jefferson, but also doesn't care how his actions affect the people around him. When Grant is told to drive up to the quarter with Tante Lou and Miss Emma, he reacts with stating, “‘It is only a matter

He shows this by telling him how his actions affect others. “‘When your nanan came back from seeing you the other day, she broke down crying.’ ‘Everybody cry,’ he said. ‘I cry.’.... ‘You can keep her from crying,’ I said. ‘You can make it easier for her. You can do her that favor.’”(pg. 128) After all the visits Miss Emma, Reverend Ambrose, and Tante Lou have made, Jefferson doesn’t seem to care any more than he used to. But for the first time, Grant seems to care about how Jefferson treats others and does something about it. He knows he can’t make Jefferson do anything but makes an effort to try and change his mind.
Grant argues with Reverend Ambrose and Miss Emma about what is best for Jefferson and his soul. Reverend Ambrose and Miss Emma state that the gifts Grant is giving Jefferson are turning him against god. Grant needs them to acknowledge how far Jefferson has come, and replies with, “‘All I know, Miss Emma, is that last Friday was the first time I reached him,' I said. ‘It was the first time he didn't call himself a hog.'” (pg. 183) Grant is convinced he has changed Jefferson's mind and has encouraged him to become strong because he is finally reaching Jefferson with his