LibGuides: Scenic & Costume Design: Guide for THE 212 & THE 311: August Wilson/Piano Lesson

Putting the play into context

Check out this context guide for August Wilson's play, The Piano Lesson, created for the play's production at the Olney Theater Center in 2014. It includes information about the playwright, his influences, and the world of the play's subject.

Reference Sources

Here are some specific sources you might use to research the context of The Piano Lesson:

The Piano Lesson in Drama for Students
This long article covers themes, style, historical context, topics for further study, criticism, and other aspects of the play.
Value of a Dollar 1920-1939
You can use this resource to get an idea of what people were paid for various jobs, what they spend on food and other household expenditures, etc.