“The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

“The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara first appeared in 1972 in her collection, Gorilla, My Love, shows her quality of weaving a social critique through the unfiltered lens of a young Black narrator. It confronts themes of economic inequality, the construction of self-identity, and the transformative power of education with a clarity and depth that continues to resonate with readers.

Main Events in “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

• Introduction of Miss Moore and Initial Impressions:
  • Miss Moore, a woman with nappy hair and proper speech, moves into the neighborhood.
  • Narrator and friends laugh at her, finding her boring and pretentious.
  • Miss Moore takes responsibility for the children’s education, organizing activities and outings.
• Outing with Miss Moore:
  • Miss Moore gathers the children to teach them about arithmetic on a hot day.
  • The group, including the narrator, resists Miss Moore’s attempts to educate them.
  • Miss Moore challenges the children’s understanding of money and economic disparity.
• Exploration of Economic Disparity:
  • Miss Moore hails cabs and takes the children to upscale areas of Manhattan.
  • Children are confronted with the extravagant prices of toys and goods.
  • Discussion arises about the unjust distribution of wealth and the children’s own circumstances.
• Contemplation on Value and Accessibility of Wealth:
  • Children reflect on the disparity between their lives and the wealth they witness.
  • They question the value of expensive items and the accessibility of wealth.
  • Miss Moore encourages critical thinking about societal structures and opportunities.
• Personal Reflection and Internal Conflicts:
  • Narrator struggles with feelings of anger and envy towards Miss Moore and Sugar.
  • Internal conflict arises as the narrator grapples with societal inequalities and personal limitations.
  • The narrator’s detachment from Sugar signals a shift in their relationship dynamics.
• Critical Questions and Realizations:
  • Miss Moore poses thought-provoking questions about democracy and equal opportunities.
  • Sugar acknowledges the unfairness of societal structures and economic disparities.
  • The children grapple with their understanding of privilege and social justice.
• Conclusion and Resolution:
  • The outing concludes with the children spending their remaining money on simple pleasures.
  • The narrator reflects on the day’s events and the lessons learned about society and inequality.
  • The children depart, each processing the experience in their own way, hinting at continued contemplation and growth.

Literary Devices in “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

Literary Device	Example	Definition & Explanation
Allusion	Reference to F.A.O. Schwarz toy store	An indirect reference to a well-known place, person, or event. In “The Lesson,” the mention of F.A.O. Schwarz, a famous toy store, alludes to wealth and privilege.
Characterization	Descriptions of Miss Moore and the children	The method used by an author to develop characters and create their personalities. In “The Lesson,” Bambara employs characterization to paint vivid portraits of both Miss Moore and the children, revealing their attitudes and traits.
Conflict	Inner conflict within the narrator	The struggle between opposing forces or ideas. In “The Lesson,” the narrator experiences internal conflict as she grapples with feelings of anger, envy, and introspection.
Dialogue	Conversations between Miss Moore and the children	The exchange of spoken words between characters. Dialogues in “The Lesson” provide insight into characters’ thoughts, feelings, and relationships.
Foreshadowing	Miss Moore’s preparation for future lessons	A literary device used to hint at future events or outcomes. In “The Lesson,” Miss Moore’s preparation for future lessons foreshadows continued exploration of societal issues and educational themes.
Hyperbole	“You got some ole dumb shit foolishness”	Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. In “The Lesson,” hyperbole is used to emphasize the disdain the narrator feels towards certain situations or individuals.
Imagery	Descriptions of the neighborhood and the toy store	Vivid and descriptive language that appeals to the senses, creating mental images for the reader. In “The Lesson,” imagery is used to paint a detailed picture of the urban neighborhood and the upscale toy store.
Irony	Children’s realization of economic disparities	A literary technique that involves contradictions or discrepancies between expectations and reality. In “The Lesson,” irony arises when the children from a lower-income neighborhood confront the economic disparities evident in the expensive toys.
Metaphor	“White folks crazy”	A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as.” In “The Lesson,” the metaphor highlights the children’s perception of the extravagant behavior observed in the affluent neighborhood.
Motif	Economic inequality and education as recurring themes	A recurring element or pattern that contributes to the development of a theme. In “The Lesson,” motifs of economic inequality and education serve as central themes that drive the narrative and character development.
Personification	“The starch in my pinafore scratching the shit outta me”	A figure of speech in which human qualities are attributed to non-human entities. In “The Lesson,” personification is used to emphasize the discomfort experienced by the narrator due to the starch in her pinafore.
Point of view	First-person narration by the protagonist	The perspective from which a story is told. In “The Lesson,” the first-person point of view allows readers to experience the events and emotions through the eyes of the narrator.
Repetition	Repeated references to economic inequality	The recurrence of words, phrases, or themes for emphasis or effect. In “The Lesson,” repetition of references to economic inequality underscores its significance and impact on the characters’ lives.
Satire	Commentary on societal disparities	A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock societal issues. In “The Lesson,” satire is employed to highlight and critique the economic disparities and social injustices faced by the characters.
Setting	Depiction of a lower-income urban neighborhood	The time and place in which a story takes place. In “The Lesson,” the setting of a lower-income urban neighborhood provides context for the characters’ experiences and influences the narrative’s themes.
Simile	“Miss Moore ask what it cost… and the price tag say $300”	A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using “like” or “as.” In “The Lesson,” the simile highlights the narrator’s surprise and disbelief at the expensive price tag of the toy.
Symbolism	Expensive toys symbolizing wealth and privilege	The use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts beyond their literal meaning. In “The Lesson,” expensive toys symbolize wealth and privilege, serving as a stark contrast to the children’s own economic realities.
Theme	Themes of education, inequality, and social justice	The central idea or message explored in a literary work. In “The Lesson,” themes of education, inequality, and social justice are prevalent, shaping the narrative and character development.
Tone	Sardonic and critical tone throughout the narrative	The attitude or mood conveyed by the author’s writing style. In “The Lesson,” the tone is sardonic and critical, reflecting the characters’ observations and commentary on societal disparities.

Characterization in “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

Major Characters:

1. Miss Moore:
   • Description: Miss Moore is a black woman who moves into the narrator’s neighborhood. She has “nappy hair” and proper speech, which initially makes her the subject of ridicule among the children.
   • Personality: Miss Moore is educated and socially conscious. She takes it upon herself to educate the children in the neighborhood about societal inequalities and the importance of education.
   • Actions: Miss Moore organizes outings for the children, exposing them to the disparities between their lives and the lives of the affluent. She challenges the children’s perspectives and encourages critical thinking.
   • Significance: Miss Moore serves as a catalyst for the children’s awareness of economic inequality and social injustice.
2. The Narrator (Sylvia):
   • Description: The narrator is a young black girl who provides the first-person perspective of the story. She is rebellious, skeptical, and initially resistant to Miss Moore’s teachings.
   • Personality: Sylvia is outspoken and defiant, often expressing disdain for Miss Moore’s lessons and the affluent lifestyle she encounters on the outings.
   • Development: Throughout the story, Sylvia undergoes a transformation as she grapples with her understanding of societal disparities and her own identity.
   • Significance: Sylvia’s narrative voice offers insight into the experiences and perceptions of the children in the neighborhood, highlighting themes of education, inequality, and social justice.

Minor Characters:

1. Sugar:
   • Description: Sugar is Sylvia’s cousin and close friend. She shares Sylvia’s skepticism towards Miss Moore’s lessons but shows moments of insight and empathy.
   • Personality: Sugar is rebellious and street-smart but demonstrates a willingness to engage with Miss Moore’s teachings.
   • Actions: Sugar participates in the outings organized by Miss Moore and contributes to the discussions about economic inequality and societal disparities.
   • Significance: Sugar’s interactions with Sylvia and Miss Moore provide additional perspectives on the themes of the story and contribute to the development of the narrative.
2. Other Children (Flyboy, Junebug, Rosie Giraffe, Big Butt, Mercedes, Q.T.):
   • Description: These children from the neighborhood accompany Miss Moore and the narrator on the outings.
   • Personality: Each child exhibits unique traits and behaviors, ranging from curiosity to skepticism.
   • Actions: The children engage in discussions and observations during the outings, reflecting different attitudes towards Miss Moore’s teachings and the disparities they encounter.
   • Significance: The interactions among the children, as well as their responses to Miss Moore’s lessons, highlight the diversity of perspectives within the community and contribute to the exploration of themes such as economic inequality and education.

Major Themes in “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

1. Poverty and Wealth: The story creates a stark contrast between the children’s Harlem neighborhood and the luxurious F.A.O. Schwarz toy store. Miss Moore’s intention is to confront the children with the realities of economic inequality. They are forced to grapple with the limitations of their own lives compared to the extravagant displays of wealth that surround them. This harsh lesson is meant to spark a desire for education and social mobility.
2. Race: The children’s race shapes their experience in the store. They are acutely aware of not belonging in this affluent, mostly white space. Miss Moore highlights these racial dynamics. The saleswoman’s suspicion and the children’s invisibility point to the prejudices they face in a larger society.
3. Education as Liberation: Miss Moore views education as a tool for overcoming poverty and achieving a better life. The trip to F.A.O. Schwarz is a practical lesson, intended to show the children how education can open doors to opportunities they may not have considered. By understanding the world beyond their neighborhood, they are empowered to pursue a future free from limitations.
4. Self-Esteem and Identity: The children initially resist Miss Moore’s lesson, feeling shame and anger at their disadvantaged position. However, as the story progresses, some of them begin to grasp the importance of her message. The story ends with Sylvia’s newfound determination, suggesting that the children are developing a sense of agency and a more positive self-image. This newfound awareness will hopefully propel them to take charge of their destinies.

Writing Style in “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

1. Vivid Imagery: Bambara employs rich and descriptive language to vividly depict the setting and characters. Through detailed descriptions, readers can visualize the urban neighborhood, the upscale toy store, and the children’s reactions to their surroundings.
2. Authentic Dialogue: The dialogue in “The Lesson” feels authentic and true to life. Bambara captures the speech patterns and expressions of the characters, particularly the children from the neighborhood, adding realism and depth to the narrative.
3. Sardonic Tone: The narrative tone in “The Lesson” is sardonic and critical, reflecting the characters’ observations and commentary on societal disparities. Bambara uses irony and satire to highlight the economic inequalities faced by the characters and to critique social injustices.
4. First-Person Narrative: The story is told from the first-person perspective of the protagonist, Sylvia. This narrative choice allows readers to experience the events and emotions of the story through Sylvia’s eyes, providing insight into her thoughts, feelings, and perceptions.
5. Symbolism and Allegory: Bambara incorporates symbolism and allegory to convey deeper themes and messages. For example, the expensive toys in the toy store symbolize wealth and privilege, serving as a stark contrast to the economic realities of the children from the neighborhood.
6. Social Commentary: Through the interactions and experiences of the characters, Bambara offers social commentary on issues such as economic inequality, access to education, and the pursuit of social justice. The story serves as a critique of the existing societal structures and challenges readers to question the status quo.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

Literary Theory	Interpretation of “The Lesson”	Examples from the Story
Socialist/Marxist	Sylvia and the other children from Harlem are juxtaposed with the wealthy patrons of Fifth Avenue. Miss Moore’s expensive hats highlight the economic disparity. Her lesson on budgeting can be seen as a call for financial literacy and social change.	* Sylvia and the other children are dressed in their “Sunday best,” which pales in comparison to the designer clothing worn by the people on Fifth Avenue. (Bambara, 1992) * Miss Moore wears expensive hats, which Sylvia initially resents. However, Miss Moore explains that she saves up for her hats, demonstrating financial responsibility. (Bambara, 1992)
Feminist	Miss Moore is a strong, independent Black woman who stands out in a society that often undervalues women. Sylvia initially resists Miss Moore’s authority but eventually comes to respect her strength and independence.	* Miss Moore is a teacher who commands respect from her students. She is not afraid to challenge them and push them to think critically. (Bambara, 1992) * Sylvia initially resists Miss Moore’s attempts to teach her about budgeting. However, she eventually comes to admire Miss Moore’s strength and independence. (Bambara, 1992)
Coming-of-Age	Sylvia’s initial excitement about the trip to Fifth Avenue turns into anger and frustration as she confronts the realities of racism and classism. This experience marks a turning point in her understanding of the world.	* Sylvia is initially excited about the trip to Fifth Avenue. She sees it as an opportunity to experience wealth and luxury. (Bambara, 1992) * However, Sylvia’s excitement quickly turns to anger and frustration as she realizes the limitations placed on her because of her race and social class. (Bambara, 1992)
Bildungsroman	The trip to Fifth Avenue serves as an educational experience for Sylvia. She gains knowledge about economics, social class, and the limitations placed on Black people in society.	* Sylvia learns about budgeting and financial responsibility from Miss Moore. (Bambara, 1992) * She also gains a deeper understanding of racism and classism. (Bambara, 1992)
Reader-Response	The story’s impact depends on the reader’s background. Readers who have faced economic hardship might connect with Sylvia’s anger. Readers from privileged backgrounds might be challenged to consider issues of social justice.	* Readers who have faced economic hardship might identify with Sylvia’s feelings of anger and frustration. * Readers from privileged backgrounds might be challenged to consider the ways in which racism and classism limit opportunities for others.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

Topic	Questions	Thesis Statements
Economic Inequality	How does Bambara illustrate economic disparities in the story?	In “The Lesson,” Toni Cade Bambara uses the characters’ interactions with the upscale toy store to highlight the stark economic inequality present in society, emphasizing the impact of wealth disparity on marginalized communities.
Education and Empowerment	What role does education play in the story, and how does it empower the characters?	Through Miss Moore’s educational outings, Bambara explores how access to knowledge can empower individuals to question societal norms and strive for social justice, ultimately challenging the status quo and advocating for change.
Social Commentary	What social issues does Bambara address in the story, and what commentary does she provide?	“The Lesson” serves as a critique of societal disparities, with Bambara using the characters’ experiences to shed light on issues such as economic inequality, access to education, and the pursuit of social justice.
Transformation and Awareness	How do the characters evolve throughout the story, and what awareness do they gain?	Bambara depicts the transformation of the protagonist, Sylvia, and her peers as they confront economic disparities during Miss Moore’s educational outing, highlighting their growing awareness of societal injustices and inequalities.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

Literary Works Similar to “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

1. “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker:
   • Like “The Lesson,” this short story explores themes of economic disparity and the importance of heritage and education. Set in the rural South, it follows a mother and her two daughters as they navigate their differing values and perspectives on their family’s history and possessions.
2. “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison:
   • Toni Morrison’s novel delves into themes of race, beauty standards, and societal oppression, similar to Bambara’s exploration of social injustice in “The Lesson.” Both works illuminate the struggles faced by marginalized communities and the quest for self-empowerment.
3. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson:
   • While tonally different, this classic short story shares thematic elements with “The Lesson,” particularly in its examination of societal norms and the consequences of blindly accepting tradition. Both works challenge readers to question established systems and norms.
4. “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” by Ursula K. Le Guin:
   • Le Guin’s short story presents a thought-provoking allegory about the moral implications of societal prosperity at the expense of individual suffering. Similarly, Bambara’s “The Lesson” prompts readers to consider the ethical dimensions of economic inequality and social responsibility.
5. “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut:
   • This dystopian short story explores themes of equality, individuality, and government control, echoing Bambara’s examination of societal structures and their impact on marginalized groups. Both works challenge readers to contemplate the implications of striving for equality at the expense of personal freedom.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

1. Bambara, Toni Cade. “The lesson.” Gorilla, my love (1972): 85-96.
2. Wright, Katy M. “The Role of Dialect Representation in Speaking from the Margins:“The Lesson” of Toni Cade Bambara.” Style 42.1 (2008): 73-83.
3. Naderi, Leila. “An African American Study of “The Lesson”, Toni Cade Bambara’s Short Story.”
4. Heller, Janet Ruth. “Toni Cade Bambara’s Use of African American Vernacular English in “The Lesson”.” Style 37.3 (2003): 279-293.
5. Hargrove, Nancy D. “The Comic Sense in the Short Stories of Toni Cade Bambara.” (1985).
6. Parker, Stacia. “Short Story Encounters: Pathos in Action in African-American Fiction.” (2012).
7. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Toni-Cade-Bambara

Representative Quotations from “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara

1. Quotation: “Back in the days when everyone was old and stupid or young and foolish and me and Sugar were the only ones just right, this lady moved on our block with nappy hair and proper speech and no makeup.”
   • Context: The narrator, Sylvia, introduces Miss Moore, the newcomer to their neighborhood.
   • Theorization: This quotation sets the tone for the story, highlighting the socio-economic disparities within the community and the skepticism towards Miss Moore, who represents education and sophistication.
2. Quotation: “And the starch in my pinafore scratching the shit outta me and I’m really hating this nappy-head bitch and her goddamn college degree.”
   • Context: Sylvia expresses her discomfort during one of Miss Moore’s educational outings on a hot day.
   • Theorization: Sylvia’s resentment towards Miss Moore’s educational efforts reflects a resistance to the idea of being taught by someone perceived as different and superior, showcasing themes of pride and resistance.
3. Quotation: “Miss Moore ask what it cost. So we all jam into the window smudgin it up and the price tag say $300.”
   • Context: Miss Moore questions the children about the cost of a microscope in a store window.
   • Theorization: This moment highlights the children’s realization of economic disparities and the value of money, prompting them to question their own circumstances and societal inequalities.
4. Quotation: “‘This is the place,‘ Miss Moore say, presenting it to us in the voice she uses at the museum. ‘Let’s look in the windows before we go in.‘”
   • Context: Miss Moore guides the children to F.A.O. Schwarz, a high-end toy store.
   • Theorization: Miss Moore’s choice of venue exposes the children to a world of wealth and privilege, confronting them with the reality of their own economic limitations.
5. Quotation: “Me and Sugar bump smack into each other, so busy gazing at the toys, ‘specially the sailboat.”
   • Context: Sylvia and Sugar are overwhelmed by the expensive toys in the store.
   • Theorization: The sailboat symbolizes unattainable luxury for the children, emphasizing the theme of economic disparity and the desire for material possessions.
6. Quotation: “‘I’d like a shower. Tiring day,‘ say Flyboy.”
   • Context: After their visit to the toy store, the children express exhaustion and discomfort.
   • Theorization: Flyboy’s comment highlights the physical and emotional toll of their excursion, underscoring the challenges they face in navigating unfamiliar environments and social expectations.
7. Quotation: “‘Imagine for a minute what kind of society it is in which some people can spend on a toy what it would cost to feed a family of six or seven. What do you think?‘”
   • Context: Sugar reflects on the disparity between the cost of the sailboat and the basic needs of a family.
   • Theorization: Sugar’s question prompts critical reflection on societal values and priorities, challenging the children to consider the inequities embedded in their society.
8. Quotation: “‘Well, we got four dollars anyway,‘ she says. ‘Uh hun.‘”
   • Context: Sylvia and Sugar discuss their remaining money after the outing.
   • Theorization: The mention of the four dollars symbolizes the children’s return to their reality after their encounter with privilege, highlighting the resilience and pragmatism that enable them to navigate their circumstances.