Thank You M’Am Essay Example
Thank You M’Am Essay Example

Thank You M’Am Essay Example

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An unexpected friend In Langston Hughes, "Thank you, M'am," introduces two characters: Roger and Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. Mrs. Jones is described as a big, fearless woman who defends herself against Roger. While she may come across as intimidating at first, as the story progresses, readers discover a different side to her. Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones possesses both easily noticeable traits and others that require closer observation.

Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones may initially appear as a stern and intimidating individual, but she is actually a compassionate and nurturing woman who seeks to impart a valuable lesson to Roger. Upon their first encounter, it becomes evident that Mrs. Jones possesses formidable strength, both physically and mentally. Demonstrating her physical prowess, she lifts Roger by his shirt and vigorously shakes him, causing his teeth to clatter.

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Moreover, she delivers a swift kick to an uncomfortable region, showcasing her mental fortitude simultaneously.

When most people are mugged, they usually comply and surrender their belongings to the thief. However, Mrs. Jones is an exception as she fearlessly stands her ground against Roger. Her unwavering courage in defending herself from the mugger truly exemplifies her mental strength. But her actions go beyond mere self-defense; she decides to take Roger home with her, intending to teach him a valuable life lesson. As she welcomes Roger into her home, Mrs. Jones adopts a motherly demeanor towards him, showing compassion and care. This transformation in attitude arises after Roger discloses his lack of familial support. Henceforth, Mrs. Jones assumes the role of a genuine mother figure.

She instructs him to cleanse his face and prepare for dinner, exhibiting the same work ethic that

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most mothers instill in their children. She repeatedly emphasizes to Roger that it is easier to work for what he needs rather than resorting to stealing. Despite the tough lesson he learned, Roger chooses to stay and allow Mrs. Jones to continue teaching him. Although he had numerous opportunities to escape, he decides against it because both he and Mrs. Jones benefit from the situation. Since Roger has no one at home, Mrs. Jones suggests that he become her son, and they spend the evening bonding as if they were mother and son. After learning about Roger's circumstances, Mrs. Jones becomes extremely generous toward him, treating him as if he were her own child. Her most noticeable characteristic, generosity, becomes evident once Roger reveals his lack of a support system at home. She begins the evening by preparing a nice meal consisting of lima beans and ham. As the night progresses, she opens up to him, sharing things that she wouldn't even confide in God. She does this out of guilt for her actions toward Roger and in an attempt to uplift his spirits. Her advice is thoughtful and considerate.

Jones performed exceptionally well in that situation, especially after she gave him ten dollars to buy the shoes he wanted. Her act of giving him the money he tried to steal demonstrates Mrs. Jones' compassionate nature. While ten dollars may not have much value today, it was equivalent to $100 in the past. Not only was she generous with her financial resources, but also with her time. As they say, "time is money." She dedicated the entire night solely to teaching Roger a lesson. Mrs. Luella

Bates Washington Jones is truly an exceptional character who possesses various qualities. Additionally, we suggest reading an essay about Jasper Jones – an Australian mystery drama film.

Despite people judging Mrs. Jones based on their initial impression of her, as readers delve deeper into her character, they realize that she is actually a generous and strong-willed individual. Teaching Roger a valuable life lesson, Mrs. Jones goes beyond instructing him about stealing and imparts wisdom about people in general. This life lesson serves as a reminder for us not to solely judge others based on their outward appearance. Despite being initially perceived as unapproachable, Mrs. Jones surprises everyone with a different impression by the end of the story.

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