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A Lesson Before Dying Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • John Keats: English Romantic poet (1.13)
  • Lord Byron: English Romantic poet (1.13)
  • Walter Scott: Scottish Romantic poet (1.13)
  • David and Goliath (12.10)
  • W.B. Yeats: Irish poet (12.13)
  • Sean O'Casey: Irish writer (12.13)
  • James Joyce, "Ivy Day in the Committee Room" in Dubliners (12.13-15)

Historical References

  • Adolf Hitler (8.36)
  • Charles Stewart Parnell: Irish nationalist leader (12.13)
  • Frederick Douglass: American abolitionist leader (14.10)
  • Abraham Lincoln (14.10)
  • Booker T. Washington: African-American educator and political leader (14.10)

Pop Culture References

  • Jackie Robinson: First black professional baseball player in the U.S. (12.2-10, 16)
  • Joe Louis: American boxer (12.10, 16)
  • Max Schmeling: German boxer (12.10, 12)

Art References

  • Leonardo da Vinci, The Last Supper (5.3)