The Piano Lesson by August Wilson

These flashcards focus on key terms and concepts from August Wilson's play "The Piano Lesson," which explores themes of heritage, conflict, and family legacy.

August Wilson

An American playwright known for his plays exploring the African American experience, including "Fences" and "The Piano Lesson."

The Piano Lesson

A play that centers on the struggle between Berniece and Boy Willie regarding the fate of a family heirloom, an intricately carved piano.

Pulitzer Prize

A prestigious award for achievements in newspaper, magazine, online journalism, literature, and musical composition within the United States.

Berniece Charles

A central character in "The Piano Lesson," who is reluctant to sell the family piano as it symbolizes her family's legacy.

Boy Willie

Berniece's brother who seeks to sell the family piano to buy land in Mississippi, representing a conflict between heritage and the desire for material success.

Legacy

Something handed down from one generation to another, often referring to cultural or familial history, as symbolized by the piano.

Sutter's Ghost

A spectral figure representing the oppressive legacy of racism and the trauma of the family's past, haunting both Berniece and Boy Willie.

The Ghosts of the Yellow Dog

A local legend within the play, referencing the perceived supernatural consequences of injustices faced by African Americans.

Family Heirloom

A valuable object that has been passed down through generations, such as the intricately carved piano in the play.

Exorcism

A religious practice of driving out demons or evil spirits from a person or place, which becomes a metaphorical action in the play.

Conflict

The struggle between opposing forces, prominently featured in the play between Berniece's and Boy Willie's desires regarding the piano.