Direct Characterization In Thank You Ma Am

In Langston Hughes short story, “Thank You, Ma'am” the reader learns that a simple act of kindness from an individual can transform a person. Roger, the boy, makes an effort to steal Mrs. Jones’ pocketbook, but his attempt backfires. He trips while trying to run away, and Mrs. Jones kicks him in his “blue-jeaned sitter.” She does not take him to jail; instead she escorts him home with her to teach him a lesson. Roger changes dramatically soon after he goes home with her. He changes from a thief to an appreciative boy due to Mrs. Jones forgiveness, kindness, and empathy. She impacted Roger in a positive way to better himself as a person. To begin with, Roger attempts to steal Mrs. Jones’ pocketbook which leads the reader to believe he is a thief. Although Roger tries to steal her pocketbook, he is unsuccessful. Mrs. Jones then asks why he is trying to steal her pocketbook and, “The boy said, I didn’t aim to,”(Hughes, 1). This asserts the reader that Roger is definitely a liar. Mrs. Jones realizes that Roger’s face is dirty and states, “Um-hum! And your face is dirty. I got a great mind …show more content…
Jones’ forgiveness, kindness, and empathy contribute to the lesson Roger learns. She shows her kindness by taking him home with her, feeding him, and not taking hi to jail. She forgives him for taking her pocketbook, and teaches him a lesson. Roger’s face being dirty is exaggerated throughout the short story to emphasize he is not well-taken care of. Mrs. Jones has empathy due to this fact. Roger begins to realize Mrs. Jones is actually trying to help him, and better him as a person. After realizing this, Roger wants to gain her trust and respect. As Mrs. Jones is walking Roger out, she gives him ten dollars to buy blue suede shoes. Roger replies with “Thank You”, and does not get a chance to say more. As a result of Mrs. Jones’ lesson, Roger turned out bettering him as a person. Thus, an individual's actions and feelings can alter an entire life of