`The Lesson` Toni Bambara

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A Lesson in History

An Analysis of Toni Cade Bambara 's The Lesson

I . Introduction

`The Lesson ' by Toni Cade Bambara is perhaps one of the most accurate depictions of the racial and economic inequity in American during the 1960s , with African Americans placed in a marginalized position . Unlike other literature centered on the same theme , Bambara appropriates the main characters of children as the medium to convey the issues of black society at the time . Effective , undoubtedly , since it is acknowledged

that truth is best dished by the young - their innocence giving everything a better semblance of truth and impartiality

The short story is quintessential Bambara , who was known in her lifetime to be a staunch advocate of racial equality and the African American cause . By using numerous characters , each with a purpose of his or her own , Bambara managed to paint the picture of black America as it was then - without resorting to editorializing or preaching , without spelling out the realities of an entire generation amidst the newfound liberty of the decade , yet clearly and succinctly conveys the emotions and stark honesty of the situation through young African American eyes

II . Toni Cade Bambara : Life Outside the Margins

Born as Miltona Mirkin Cade on 25 March 1939 , Bambara lived her early years in Harlem , Brooklyn , and Manhattan , where she engaged in various art forms such as dance and acting before finally settling on fiction and storytelling . Bambara 's family background , including her scholarly...