Conflict in thank you ma’am – In Langston Hughes’s poignant short story, “Thank You Ma’am,” conflict takes center stage, shaping the narrative and propelling the characters toward a transformative resolution. This captivating tale explores the complexities of human nature, the power of compassion, and the transformative potential of unexpected encounters.

As the story unfolds, we witness a clash between Roger, a troubled young boy, and Mrs. Jones, a kind-hearted woman. This conflict sets in motion a series of events that challenge both characters and ultimately leads to a profound shift in their perspectives.

Conflict and Resolution

In “Thank You Ma’am,” the primary conflict arises from the initial encounter between Mrs. Jones and Roger. Roger, a hungry and desperate young boy, attempts to snatch Mrs. Jones’s purse, leading to a physical altercation.

The conflict is resolved through Mrs. Jones’s unexpected kindness and compassion. Despite Roger’s initial aggression, Mrs. Jones chooses not to punish him but instead takes him home, feeds him, and offers him a chance to redeem himself. Roger, initially resistant, gradually responds to Mrs.

Jones’s kindness and ultimately expresses gratitude for her actions.

Mrs. Jones’s Compassion

• Mrs. Jones’s understanding of Roger’s hunger and desperation leads her to empathize with his situation.
• She offers him food and shelter, demonstrating her willingness to help those in need.
• Her refusal to report Roger to the authorities shows her belief in his potential for redemption.

Roger’s Transformation

• Roger’s initial aggression stems from his hunger and desperation.
• Mrs. Jones’s kindness and compassion gradually soften his demeanor.
• He expresses gratitude for her actions, showing his understanding of her intentions.

Character Development

Roger is a troubled and impoverished young man who steals Mrs. Jones’s purse. He is initially motivated by hunger and desperation, but his encounter with Mrs. Jones challenges his worldview and sets him on a path toward redemption.

Roger’s Motivations, Conflict in thank you ma’am

Roger’s primary motivation is survival. He lives in poverty and is often hungry. He steals to meet his basic needs, and he does not see any other options. However, Roger also has a sense of shame and guilt about stealing.

He knows that what he is doing is wrong, and he feels bad about it.

The conflicts in “Thank You Ma’am” arise from the tension between Roger and Mrs. Jones, as well as Roger’s inner struggles. Similarly, in John Donne’s poem the bait , the speaker grapples with internal conflicts and external temptations. Both works explore the complexities of human nature and the challenges we face in navigating our relationships and our own desires.

The Conflict with Mrs. Jones

The conflict with Mrs. Jones forces Roger to confront his motivations and his behavior. Mrs. Jones is a kind and compassionate woman who does not judge Roger for stealing her purse. Instead, she offers him food and shelter, and she talks to him about his life.

Roger is surprised by Mrs. Jones’s kindness, and he begins to question his own behavior.

The Turning Point

The turning point in Roger’s behavior comes when Mrs. Jones gives him a pair of blue suede shoes. These shoes are a symbol of hope and redemption for Roger. They represent the possibility of a better future, and they give Roger the motivation to change his life.

Theme and Symbolism

The central theme of “Thank You Ma’am” is the power of compassion and the transformative nature of human connection. This theme is symbolized by the conflict between Roger and Mrs. Jones.

Conflict as a Symbol of Compassion

Roger’s initial attempt to steal Mrs. Jones’ purse represents his desperation and lack of empathy. However, Mrs. Jones’ compassionate response, despite Roger’s actions, challenges his preconceived notions and awakens his sense of humanity.

“She was an old woman, small and spare, with a large purse that had everything in it but hammer and nails.”

“It was as if she had known all the time that he was not going to run away and had been waiting for him to turn around and come back.”

Conflict as a Symbol of Transformation

The conflict between Roger and Mrs. Jones leads to a profound transformation in Roger. Mrs. Jones’ kindness and understanding shatter his hardened exterior and reveal the vulnerable child within.

“He was no longer a thief.”

“He had never been offered so much before; he had never known such kindness.”

“She was his friend. She had given him a chance.”

Setting and Social Context

The setting of “Thank You Ma’am” plays a crucial role in shaping the story and its themes. The story is set in a poor, urban neighborhood in New York City during the 1930s, a time of widespread economic depression and social unrest.

The neighborhood is described as rundown and impoverished, with broken-down buildings and littered streets. The people who live there are struggling to make ends meet, and crime and poverty are rampant. This setting creates a sense of desperation and hopelessness, which influences the actions of the characters and the conflict that arises between them.

Social Context

The social context of the story also plays a significant role in the conflict and its resolution. The story is set during a time of great social inequality, with the wealthy elite living in stark contrast to the poor and working class.

This inequality is reflected in the way that the characters interact with each other. Mrs. Jones, a wealthy woman, initially treats Roger with suspicion and hostility because he is a poor, black boy. However, as she gets to know him, she begins to see him as an individual and treats him with compassion and respect.

Role of Poverty and Social Inequality

Poverty and social inequality are major themes in “Thank You Ma’am.” The story shows how poverty can lead to crime and desperation, and how social inequality can create barriers between people. However, it also shows that compassion and understanding can overcome these barriers and lead to redemption.

Author’s Craft

Langston Hughes’s “Thank You Ma’am” is a masterfully crafted story that uses language and literary devices to effectively convey the conflict and resolution between the young boy Roger and Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones.

Use of Language

Hughes’s use of colloquial language and vernacular gives the story a sense of authenticity and realism. The dialogue between Roger and Mrs. Jones is particularly effective in capturing the nuances of their relationship and the conflict between them. For example, Roger’s initial resistance to Mrs.

Jones’s kindness is expressed through his use of slang, such as “I don’t want no busted head either.” However, as the story progresses, Roger’s language becomes more respectful and polite, reflecting his growing appreciation for Mrs. Jones’s kindness.

Use of Literary Devices

Hughes also employs a number of literary devices to enhance the conflict and resolution of the story. For example, the use of foreshadowing creates a sense of suspense and anticipation. Early in the story, Mrs. Jones mentions that she has a “fist full of pennies,” which foreshadows her eventual act of giving Roger money.

Additionally, the use of irony adds depth and complexity to the story. For example, it is ironic that Roger initially tries to steal from Mrs. Jones, only to later be the recipient of her kindness and generosity.

FAQ Summary: Conflict In Thank You Ma’am

What is the primary conflict in “Thank You Ma’am”?

The primary conflict in “Thank You Ma’am” is between Roger, a young boy who attempts to steal Mrs. Jones’s purse, and Mrs. Jones, a kind-hearted woman who shows him compassion and challenges his behavior.

How is the conflict resolved?

The conflict is resolved when Mrs. Jones confronts Roger, forces him to confront his actions, and ultimately shows him kindness and understanding. This leads to a change in Roger’s behavior and a realization of the error of his ways.

What is the significance of the turning point in Roger’s behavior?

The turning point in Roger’s behavior occurs when Mrs. Jones takes him home and feeds him. This act of kindness and compassion challenges Roger’s preconceptions and leads him to question his own actions. It marks the beginning of his transformation and sets him on a path toward redemption.