What part did religion play in Maya Angelous early life and in the development of her character ?
Throughout “I know why the caged bird sings” Maya Angelou makes frequent references to religion; we know that it is going to play an important part in her life as the book opens with a recollection from the Episcopal Church. One of the many regular attendees at the Church is Maya’s grandmother “Momma” who we learn, is very religious. In the absence of her mother, Momma and her religion are the two greatest influences in the young Maya’s life. We learn that at 4am Momma rises to open the Store and to say her prayers. Momma thanks God for every mercy, has no bitterness for Uncle Willie’s handicap and sings hymns to help her through times of crisis. Momma’s Store is the lay centre of activity for the black community in Stamps. even there people talk freely about religion. Indeed many people visit the store to do just that; for example Brother Taylor and Mrs Flowers. If the Store is important to the black community in Stamps it is Christianity that holds it together. After the marvellous d
