The Piano Lesson

Definition

The Piano Lesson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by August Wilson, part of his Pittsburgh Cycle, which explores themes of heritage, identity, and the African American experience through the lens of a family's struggle over a cherished family heirloom, a piano. The play highlights the conflicting perspectives of its characters about their past and the significance of their cultural history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Piano Lesson premiered in 1987 and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1988, solidifying Wilson's reputation as a major playwright.
2. The play centers around siblings Boy Willie and Berniece who have differing views on whether to sell their family's piano, which represents their shared ancestry and struggles.
3. The piano itself is intricately carved with images that depict the family's history, symbolizing the connection between past and present.
4. August Wilson's writing often emphasizes oral tradition, and The Piano Lesson reflects this through the characters' storytelling and memories.
5. The conflict between materialism and spiritual heritage is a core theme in The Piano Lesson, prompting questions about what it means to honor one's roots.

Review Questions

• How do the differing views of Boy Willie and Berniece regarding the piano symbolize broader themes of heritage and identity in The Piano Lesson?
  • Boy Willie's desire to sell the piano represents a focus on material gain and moving forward, while Berniece's attachment to it reflects a commitment to preserving their family's history and legacy. Their conflicting perspectives illustrate how individuals can approach heritage differently, highlighting the struggle many face in balancing progress with honoring their roots. This conflict ultimately drives the narrative and deepens the exploration of what it means to be connected to one's past.
• Discuss how The Piano Lesson fits into August Wilson's Pittsburgh Cycle and what it reveals about African American life in the context of its time.
  • The Piano Lesson is part of August Wilson's Pittsburgh Cycle, which captures the complexities of African American life across different decades. Set in the 1930s, this play reveals how systemic racism, economic hardship, and cultural heritage shape the identities of its characters. It illustrates not just personal struggles but also broader social issues faced by African Americans during this period, emphasizing themes of resilience and the importance of community bonds.
• Evaluate how The Piano Lesson addresses themes of memory and storytelling as a means of preserving cultural identity for future generations.
  • In The Piano Lesson, memory and storytelling are portrayed as vital tools for preserving cultural identity amid societal challenges. The characters often recount their family's past through anecdotes tied to the piano, transforming it into a living archive of their experiences. This emphasis on narrative showcases how sharing stories fosters community connection and understanding, allowing individuals to navigate their identities while honoring their ancestors. Ultimately, this play underscores that remembering one's history is crucial for shaping future generations' sense of self.

Related terms

August Wilson: An influential African American playwright known for his work in the Pittsburgh Cycle, which chronicles the experiences of African Americans in the 20th century.

Pittsburgh Cycle: A series of ten plays by August Wilson, each set in a different decade of the 20th century, reflecting the African American experience through various historical and social contexts.

Heritage: The cultural legacy passed down from previous generations, which plays a significant role in shaping individual identity and community values.