I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings

Religious fundamentalism, central to Maya’s life in Stamps, is an invisible yet constant presence in Momma Henderson’s home. How does it shape Maya’s worldview in her formative years, and to which extent it is reflected in her personality?

The structure of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is thematic, rather than chronological, which makes it stand out among other coming-of-age autobiographies. Using specific examples from the text, explain how and for what purpose Angelou utilizes the non-chronological narrative.

What techniques, common to fiction, but less characteristic of autobiography, does Angelou use in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings? List specific examples and explain what purpose they serve in the text.