Character Development

Author's Note: This piece was written to demonstrate my knowledge of character analysis. 

Today we are so materialistic that some people resort to stealing to get what they want. Roger in the story “Thank You Ma’am” by Langston Hughes changes from troubled youth to a respectful youth.

In the beginning of the story, Roger attempted to steal Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones pocketbook (purse). “He ran up behind her and tried to snatch her purse.” This is the evidence that Roger attempted to steal her pocketbook. I think he did this because of his lack of family support and guidance.

As the story went on, Roger changed from being criminal to someone who could be trusted. The proof of this is that he did not run when he had the chance. “Roger looked at the door—looked at the woman—looked at the door—and went to the sink.” Further proof of this is that he sat on the far side of the room where she could see him. He did not trust the woman not to trust him. And he did not want to be mistrusted now.” I think this happened because Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones had taken care of him.

Through Roger I learned that if someone cares about you, it can make you change.