This chapter is one of the most powerful in the book as Jefferson accepts his human condition and Grant has his eyes opened to his own need to affirm the dignity of all individuals and his own complicity in the attitudes that have held his people back.
In addition, we see three key "lessons" underlying this chapter: moral obligation, the value of education, and the role and responsibility of teachers.
Both Grant and Jefferson accept their moral obligations. Grant does what the reverend asked him to do, but he doesn't lie to Jefferson concerning his own beliefs. He tells him that he believes in God, but admits that he is not convinced of an afterlife and spiritual salvation. Jefferson recognizes his moral obligation to "take the cross" for the whole community and to thank his nannan by giving her hope of seeing him in heaven. Jefferson's offering Grant a sweet potato symbolizes Jefferson's realization that he is a human being with something to offer. He can "give back" to the community. He has learned his lesson: He is a man, not a hog. Jefferson no longer blames Grant for his situation. By offering Grant a sweet potato, he demonstrates his forgiveness and his affection for Grant. The sweet potato is all he has, but he's willing to share it because he realizes that Grant has helped him to regain his manhood.
