Effects on Religious Beliefs and Human Dignity Throughout history, it has been proven that the environment around us reflects on what we believe and how we act around others. In the novel A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines this aspect is strongly stressed throughout. Jefferson, the character that Gaines creates for us, is not only stripped of his human dignity but is also confused about the existence of God and heaven. His attorney, Reverend Ambrose, and Grant Wiggins all reflect Jefferson's change in behavior, and how he views his religion. At Jefferson's trial his attorney tries to w