Thank You, Ma Am, By Langston Hughes

It’s the smallest actions that generally create the greatest change. In Langston Hughes' short story, “Thank You, ma’am,” the author presents a character in the short story, Mrs.Jones, an assertive but understanding lower-class woman who helps Roger, a disturbed teen, choose to live his life differently. Early in the story, Roger tries to steal Mrs. Jones's purse as she heads home after a long day. Instead of calling law enforcement, Mrs. Jones saw Rogers's dirty appearance and brought the boy to her home and had him wash his face, and cook him a meal. Langston Hughes uses this time to make a connection among them, revealing the large influence of acts and generosity. In "Thank You, Ma'am," Langston Hughes uses characterization to create the idea of

Then she reached down, picked the boy up by his shirt front, and shook him until his teeth rattled." By specifying Mrs. Jones's physical actions, the author indirectly characterizes her as a firm and daunting woman. This information helps to show the difference between her hard exterior.

"The woman did not once look around nor pause in her stride. She said something to him. She said it lightheartedly. She was a large woman with a large purse that had everything in it but a hammer and nails. It had a long strap, and she carried it slung across her shoulder.”

By the elements in Mrs. Jones's purse, the author indirectly characterizes Mrs.Jones as a character who is constantly prepared and efficient. This description implies that her generosity towards Roger is not unintentional, but preferably a reflection of her deep sense of understanding and sorrow. Overall, these instances of indirect characterization help to evolve the idea of generosity and mercy through the display. tough or unyielding people can exhibit acts of kindness and compassion toward