Conflict between African Cultural Legacy and Modernity in August Wilson's The Piano Lesson

Abstract

August Wilson's The Piano Lesson highlights, through the slave narrative, the conflict between the African cultural legacy and modern liberal tradition, which the sister, Berniece, and the brother, Willie Boy represent respectively. The fulcrum of the conflict in the play is the piano. Boy Willie wants to create his new identity separate from his past slavery through the possession of land which is a sign of modernity in the post slavery era, whereas Berniece’s denial to part with the piano reflects her adherence to her ancestors’ culture. It brings a serious conflict between the brother and sister.