In "Thank You, Ma'am" by Langston Hughes, the main characters are:
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Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones - She is a strong, compassionate woman who works hard for her living. Mrs. Jones is pivotal in the story, as she embodies resilience, kindness, and the idea of second chances.
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Roger - He is a young boy, a teenager who attempts to steal Mrs. Jones's purse. Roger is portrayed as a troubled youth, desperate and perhaps seeking acceptance or understanding.
Setting: The story takes place in a mid-20th century urban setting, primarily in a city street and Mrs. Jones's modest apartment. The street is depicted as a place of struggle, while her apartment represents a refuge, warmth, and a space for connection and dialogue between the characters. The time period, while not explicitly stated, suggests a post-World War II context, highlighting social issues relevant to that era, including poverty and the challenges faced by youths in similar situations.
The interactions between Mrs. Jones and Roger unfold against this backdrop, emphasizing themes of trust, empathy, and redemption.