37 pages • 1 hour read
The Amen Corner
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
112
Play • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1950s
1954
Adult
18+ years
540L
Super Short Summary
The Amen Corner takes place in Harlem in 1954 and follows Margaret Alexander, a Black preacher, whose leadership and personal life begin to unravel when her estranged and ailing husband, Luke, reappears, leading to conflicts within her family and church, and ultimately causing her congregation to question her integrity and dedication. This play discusses the effects of systemic racism and poverty on infant mortality.
Emotional
Contemplative
Melancholic
Inspirational
Dark
Reviews & Readership
1,065 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
James Baldwin's The Amen Corner is lauded for its powerful portrayal of African American religious life and its complex characters. Critics appreciate Baldwin's sharp dialogue and the emotional depth he gives to personal and communal struggles. However, some feel the narrative can be heavy-handed and melodramatic at times. Overall, it's a compelling and thought-provoking play.
Who Should Read The Amen Corner?
The ideal reader for James Baldwin's The Amen Corner is one who appreciates poignant explorations of race, religion, and family dynamics. Fans of works like August Wilson's Fences or Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun will find Baldwin's intricate narrative and deep character studies equally compelling.
1,065 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Luke
Luke
Margaret's estranged husband, a musician with health issues, seeking reconciliation with Margaret and their son, David.
David
David
The 18-year-old son of Margaret and Luke, who grapples with his religious upbringing and develops a connection with his father through music.
Odessa
Odessa
A loyal friend to Margaret and member of the church who cares for those around her and supports Margaret against church opposition.
Sister Moore
Sister Moore
A proud church member who remains unmarried, aligning herself strongly with Margaret’s sermons and upholding stringent religious standards.
Brother Boxer
Brother Boxer
A primary church member who confronts Margaret on her attitudes and actions and grows increasingly discontent with her leadership.
Ida Jackson
Ida Jackson
A young mother who seeks Margaret’s guidance at church, illustrating different perspectives on marriage and family commitment.
112
Play • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1950s
1954
Adult
18+ years
540L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.