Mr. Clarence Taylor Character Analysis

Cedric’s chemistry teacher at Ballou, Mr. Taylor is one of the people who recognizes Cedric’s intellect and potential from the beginning, and offered his spare time and energy to help the boy advance beyond the boundaries of their underserved high school. He is a constant source of support, guidance, and inspiration for Cedric during high school, and uses their mutual faith in God to help keep the boy on track. However, when Mr. Taylor visits Cedric while he’s at Brown, the teacher gives his student a Bible study magazine, hoping to maintain that connection of faith in God; Cedric has no use for this gift, and leaves it on a stoop, recognizing that he is swiftly moving away from his old life and his connection to the church, though he still believes in God.