In Langston Hughes' short story "Thank You, Ma'am," the character of Roger is a young, poor teenager who tries to steal Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones' purse. However, through Mrs. Jones' kindness and understanding, Roger learns valuable lessons about trust, respect, and responsibility.
At the beginning of the story, Roger is depicted as a troubled and desperate individual. He is desperate enough to try and steal from someone on the street, showing that he is willing to do whatever it takes to get what he wants. This desperation is likely due to his poverty and the fact that he has no parental guidance or support.
Despite his initial intentions, Roger is not portrayed as a bad or malicious character. On the contrary, he is depicted as a young man who has made a mistake and is willing to accept the consequences of his actions. When Mrs. Jones catches him trying to steal her purse, Roger is terrified and apologetic, begging for her mercy.
Throughout the story, Mrs. Jones acts as a maternal figure for Roger, showing him kindness and understanding despite his wrongdoing. She takes him to her home, feeds him, and teaches him valuable lessons about trust and respect. Through her guidance, Roger learns to take responsibility for his actions and to think about the consequences of his choices.
By the end of the story, Roger is a changed person. He has learned to respect others and to think about the impact of his actions on others. He is grateful to Mrs. Jones for her kindness and understanding, and he promises to use the lessons she has taught him in the future.
In conclusion, Roger is a complex and dynamic character who undergoes significant personal growth throughout the course of "Thank You, Ma'am." Despite his initial wrongdoing, he is ultimately a good person who learns valuable lessons about trust, respect, and responsibility through the guidance of Mrs. Jones.
