Thank You Ma’am

In the story, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones is a large, kindly woman walking home alone
late at night. A teenage boy runs up behind her and tries to snatch her purse. The strap of the
purse breaks, and the boy falls backward onto the sidewalk, landing on his back. Mrs. Jones
quickly turns around, kicks him, and then picks him up by his shirt. She scolds him for trying to
steal and makes him pick up her purse.

She questions him about his actions and learns that he’s hungry and has no home to return to.
Instead of turning him over to the police, Mrs. Jones takes the boy to her home. She makes him
wash his face and prepares a meal for him, sharing details about her own life and work. She
reveals that she, too, has made mistakes in her past.
After they eat, Mrs. Jones gives the boy $10 to buy the blue suede shoes he wanted. She
advises him not to steal again, explaining that such things are not worth it and will lead to
trouble. The boy is deeply touched by her generosity and, though he struggles to find the right
words, thanks her sincerely before leaving. Mrs. Jones then shuts the door, and the boy never
sees her again.
MCQS:
1. What time of day does the story take place?
- a) Morning
- b) Afternoon
- c) Evening
- d) Night
2. How does the boy try to steal Mrs. Jones’s purse?
- a) By using a knife
- b) By snatching it
- c) By grabbing it aggressively
- d) By cutting the strap
3. What happens to the boy when he tries to snatch the purse?
- a) He runs away successfully
- b) He falls and loses his balance
- c) He is caught by the police
- d) He manages to pull the purse away
4. How does Mrs. Jones react when the boy tries to steal her purse?
- a) She calls for help
- b) She ignores him
- c) She kicks him and catches him
- d) She starts shouting
5. What does Mrs. Jones do after she catches the boy?
- a) She takes him to the police station
- b) She lets him go
- c) She drags him to her home
- d) She gives him money
6. What does Mrs. Jones ask the boy to do when they are in her home?
- a) Watch TV
- b) Wash his face
- c) Read a book
- d) Clean the house
7. How does Mrs. Jones know the boy is hungry?
- a) He tells her directly
- b) He looks weak and tired
- c) He tries to snatch her purse
- d) He asks for food
8. What does Mrs. Jones prepare for the boy to eat?
- a) Sandwich and juice
- b) Soup and bread
- c) Lima beans and ham
- d) Rice and chicken
9. What does Mrs. Jones give the boy after dinner?
- a) A new jacket
 - b) $10
- c) A toy
- d) A book
10. What reason does the boy give for trying to steal the purse?
- a) To buy food
- b) To get money for his family
- c) To buy blue suede shoes
- d) To pay for school
11. How does Mrs. Jones feel about the boy’s attempt to steal?
- a) She is very angry
- b) She is indifferent
- c) She is understanding and forgiving
- d) She is confused
12. What does Mrs. Jones say about her own past?
- a) She has always been honest
- b) She has never made mistakes
- c) She has done things she would not tell anyone
- d) She was a perfect child
13. What does Mrs. Jones not ask the boy about?
- a) His family
- b) His school
- c) His favorite food
- d) His hobbies
14. What is Mrs. Jones’s final advice to the boy?
- a) To study hard
- b) To never steal again
- c) To get a job
 - d) To move to another town
15. How does the boy respond to Mrs. Jones’s generosity?
- a) He is indifferent
- b) He is grateful and says “Thank you”
- c) He tries to leave immediately
- d) He demands more money
16. Where does Mrs. Jones leave her purse while preparing the meal?
- a) On the table
- b) On the day-bed
- c) In the kitchen
- d) In the hallway
17. What does Mrs. Jones do after giving the boy the money?
- a) She takes him to the store
- b) She walks him home
- c) She closes the door and goes to bed
- d) She takes him to the police station
18. What is the boy’s reaction when he is given the money for the shoes?
- a) He refuses it
- b) He is surprised
- c) He asks for more
- d) He runs away with it
19. What does Mrs. Jones not do while talking to the boy?
- a) She does not scold him further
- b) She does not watch him closely
- c) She does not inquire about his background
- d) She does not offer him more food
20. What message does the story convey through Mrs. Jones’s actions?
 - a) Crime does not pay
- b) People should be punished for stealing
- c) Kindness and understanding can change lives
- d) Stealing is always justified if needed

Give Reasons:
1. Why did Roger try to steal Mrs. Jones's purse?

Roger tried to steal Mrs. Jones’s purse because he wanted to buy a pair of blue suede shoes.
The story hints that he may lack parental guidance and resources. His desperation leads him to
make a poor choice. Mrs. Jones later guesses his motive, saying, "I were young once and I
wanted things I could not get." This line shows her empathy, suggesting she understands
Roger’s struggles.
2. Why didn’t Mrs. Jones call the police after Roger tried to steal from her?

Mrs. Jones didn’t call the police because she saw a chance to guide Roger rather than punish
him. She understood that involving the police might lead him down a difficult path. Her
approach reflects compassion, as she tells Roger, "I would teach you right from wrong." Instead
of choosing harshness, she teaches him a lesson he would remember, believing kindness can be
transformative.
3. Why did Mrs. Jones take Roger to her home?
Mrs. Jones took Roger to her home because she wanted to show him a better way of life and
provide him with care. Rather than leaving him on the street or lecturing him, she gave him
food and talked to him as an equal, demonstrating trust. Her gesture represents her desire to
help him, as she explains, "I have done things, too, which I would not tell you," admitting that
everyone has moments they’re not proud of.
4. Why did Roger decide not to run away from Mrs. Jones’s home?
Roger chose not to run away because he sensed Mrs. Jones's trust and kindness. When she left
her purse within his reach, he realized she saw something redeemable in him. Her trust
encouraged him to stay and respect her rules. Her words, "You ought to be my son. I would
teach you right from wrong," made him feel valued, showing that she believed he was capable
of making better choices.
5. Why did Mrs. Jones share her personal experiences with Roger?
Mrs. Jones shared her past to connect with Roger and let him know he wasn’t alone in his
struggles. By admitting she, too, had wanted things she couldn't have, she showed
understanding and empathy. Her openness creates a safe space for Roger to reflect on his own
actions. "I have done things too, which I would not tell you," she says, acknowledging that
everyone makes mistakes, but can choose to rise above them.
6. Why did Roger want to earn Mrs. Jones’s trust?
Roger wanted to earn Mrs. Jones’s trust because he respected her kindness and saw her as a
figure of guidance. After she showed him generosity, he wanted to prove he was worthy of it.
He began to desire her approval, a response to her treating him with dignity and respect. He
tried to sit away from her purse to reassure her of his intentions, a shift from his initial selfish
act.
7. Why did Mrs. Jones give Roger the money for blue suede shoes?
Mrs. Jones gave Roger the money for shoes because she wanted to fulfill his wish without
ignoring theft. Her gift showed that there are better ways to get what one wants. She says,
"Now, here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes," which reflects her
willingness to help him while teaching him a lesson on honesty and trust.
8. Why didn’t Roger say more than "thank you" to Mrs. Jones?
Roger could only manage to say "thank you" because he was overwhelmed by her kindness. Her
generosity and unexpected care left him speechless. This simple "thank you" represents his
deep gratitude, and the realization of how much her trust and guidance meant to him. Her
actions spoke volumes, making it difficult for him to fully express the impact of this brief but
powerful encounter.
9. Why did Mrs. Jones trust Roger despite his initial actions?

Mrs. Jones trusted Roger because she saw potential in him beyond his mistake. She
understood that people sometimes act out of need or desperation, not inherent badness. Her
ability to see past his actions is evident in her letting him into her home, saying, "I wanted a pair
of shoes, but I didn't steal to get them," indirectly showing that she believed he could also make
better choices.
10. Why is Mrs. Jones’s approach to teaching Roger important to the story?
Mrs. Jones’s approach is crucial because it shows the power of compassion over punishment.
By choosing to teach Roger rather than scold him, she offers him hope and a role model. Her
line, "Shoes got by devilish ways will burn your feet," summarizes her philosophy. She doesn’t
just give him money; she teaches him dignity, which is a lasting lesson. This compassionate
method is central to the story’s theme of redemption.
Short Answer Questions
1. How does Langston Hughes use the setting of the story to emphasize the themes of trust
and redemption?

Langston Hughes sets Thank You, Ma'am at night in an urban environment, which symbolizes
the hidden struggles of people in poverty. The darkness serves as a metaphor for Roger’s
circumstances, as he attempts to steal Mrs. Jones’s purse out of desperation. When Mrs. Jones
brings Roger to her modest home, the story shifts from a public to a private setting, where trust
is built. Her apartment symbolizes warmth, a safe haven where he can experience care and
compassion, something he likely misses in his life. By inviting Roger into her home, she
transforms the bleakness of his initial actions into an opportunity for redemption. The change
in setting—from street to home—mirrors Roger’s journey from misguided choices to self-
awareness. Thus, the urban setting not only highlights the social and economic challenges faced
by individuals like Roger but also enhances the story’s focus on redemption and the
transformative power of kindness.
2. Explain how Hughes develops Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones’s character to illustrate
the theme of empathy.
Mrs. Jones’s character is developed through her actions, dialogue, and the gentle wisdom she
imparts. Hughes introduces her as a strong, formidable woman, unafraid to confront Roger.
However, her decision to take him home rather than punish him reveals her empathetic nature.
Her quote, “I have done things, too, which I would not tell you,” shows she relates to Roger’s
struggles, having once faced temptations herself. This acknowledgment of her past helps build
a bridge of understanding between them. Her empathy is evident in the way she cares for him
by giving him a meal, money, and advice, showing that her understanding extends beyond
words. Hughes presents Mrs. Jones as a figure of resilience, one who embodies empathy by
showing Roger that he can make better choices. Through her actions, Hughes reveals the
story’s core message: empathy can bring about transformation.
3. Why is Roger unable to say anything more than “thank you” at the end of the story?

Roger’s inability to express more than a simple “thank you” at the story’s end reflects the
depth of his gratitude and his emotional transformation. Throughout his time with Mrs. Jones,
he experiences a form of kindness that’s foreign to him, leaving him overwhelmed and
introspective. Mrs. Jones not only refrains from punishing him but also trusts him, feeding and
giving him money. This care contrasts with what he likely encounters in his daily life, as
indicated by his initial desperate attempt to steal. His silence signifies the impact of her
compassion and the lessons he learns. Her words and actions have given him hope and an
understanding of dignity, and in his shock and gratitude, “thank you” is the only expression he
can muster. The simplicity of his words suggests the beginning of a change within him, igniting a
sense of self-worth and respect.
4. Why does Mrs. Jones admit to Roger that she has done things she is not proud of?
By admitting to her own past mistakes, Mrs. Jones connects with Roger on a personal level,
bridging the generational and experiential gap between them. Her honesty about her
imperfections humanizes her, showing Roger that everyone has faced struggles and
temptation. Her statement, “I have done things, too, which I would not tell you,” signifies that
she understands his circumstances. Instead of judging, she empathizes, revealing her character
as one shaped by experience and wisdom. This moment not only teaches Roger that it is okay
to have flaws but also models self-acceptance and resilience. By revealing her past, Mrs. Jones
encourages Roger to think about his own actions and choices, imparting a subtle lesson on
integrity. Her openness is instrumental in helping Roger realize that mistakes do not define a
person; rather, it is how one chooses to move forward that matters.
5. How does the theme of trust play a significant role in Roger’s transformation?
Trust is central to Roger’s transformation. Mrs. Jones places her purse within his reach and does
not monitor him closely, giving Roger the chance to choose honesty over theft. This moment is
pivotal; instead of stealing again, he stays, which marks the beginning of his shift toward
integrity. Mrs. Jones’s trust shows Roger that he is capable of making honorable choices, a
feeling that likely contrasts with his previous experiences. By trusting him, she instills a sense of
self-worth in Roger. Hughes uses this trust to illustrate that when young people are given
responsibility, they often rise to meet it. This act of trust plants a seed of morality in Roger’s
mind, helping him understand that respect and dignity are more valuable than any material
possession.
6. How does Thank You, Ma'am reflect on the social issues faced by urban youth?
Thank You, Ma'am sheds light on the challenges urban youth often face, such as poverty, lack
of guidance, and limited resources. Roger, the story’s young protagonist, represents many
children who resort to desperate measures in search of basic needs or desires. Through Mrs.
Jones’s character, Hughes suggests that compassion and empathy can guide young people away
from harmful paths. Mrs. Jones’s treatment of Roger is a powerful statement on the
importance of community involvement in raising children. The story underscores the idea that,
often, these children are simply in need of positive influences and second chances. By providing
Roger with food, kindness, and understanding rather than punishment, Mrs. Jones sets an
example of how society can address the root causes of juvenile delinquency and foster positive
change.
7. “He did not trust the woman not to trust him. And he did not want to be mistrusted now.”
Discuss how this line reflects Roger’s inner transformation during his time with Mrs. Jones.
What does this shift reveal about his character and the impact of her trust?
This line marks a crucial turning point for Roger. Initially, he acted purely out of his own need,
but after experiencing Mrs. Jones’s compassion, he begins to value her trust. Her unexpected
kindness and belief in him make him question his actions and desire her approval. The line
reflects Roger’s struggle between his past habits and a newfound respect for Mrs. Jones. It’s
clear that her simple act of leaving her purse in sight has a profound impact, making him want
to honor the trust she places in him. This moment symbolizes his internal journey toward
integrity, showing that the faith someone places in another can spark a significant change.
8. “I were young once and I wanted things I could not get.” How does this statement deepen
the reader’s understanding of Mrs. Jones’s character? In what way does it influence Roger’s
perspective?
Mrs. Jones’s admission of her own past struggles builds a bridge between herself and Roger. By
revealing her own history of wanting things beyond her reach, she conveys empathy without
directly chastising him. This line helps the reader see her as someone who understands and
relates to human failings rather than simply reprimanding him. For Roger, it’s a revelation that
even someone as confident as Mrs. Jones has faced similar emotions. This statement allows
him to view her as a guide rather than an adversary, reinforcing the story’s theme of
compassion over judgment and encouraging Roger to consider different paths for his own life.
9. “Now here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes.” What is the
significance of Mrs. Jones giving Roger the money he tried to steal, and how does it
contribute to the story’s themes?

This line is powerful as it demonstrates Mrs. Jones’s profound compassion and belief in second
chances. By giving Roger the money he intended to steal, she not only fulfills his desire but does
so in a way that encourages him to value honesty. This gesture challenges Roger’s perception of
right and wrong, showing him that there are people who believe in helping rather than
condemning. The money is less important than the lesson that comes with it; she provides him
with a way to earn his shoes honorably. This act reflects themes of redemption and kindness,
proving that even small acts of generosity can alter a person’s outlook on life.

5. Reflect on the closing line of the story: “And he barely managed to say ‘Thank you’ before
she shut the door.” What does Roger’s final reaction reveal about the effect Mrs. Jones has
had on him? How does this moment encapsulate the story’s message?

The closing line captures the deep impact Mrs. Jones’s kindness has left on Roger. He is at a loss
for words, overwhelmed by the generosity and trust she showed him in such a short span of
time. His inability to articulate his gratitude suggests a mix of shame, appreciation, and awe,
indicating that her actions have touched him in ways he may not fully comprehend yet. This
moment encapsulates the story’s message about the transformative power of empathy and
second chances. Mrs. Jones’s compassion has left an imprint on Roger, hinting that this
encounter will influence his future choices. The simplicity of his “thank you” contrasts sharply
with the powerful lessons he has received, illustrating the profound effect kindness can have.
Long Questions
1. “He did not trust the woman not to trust him. And he did not want to be mistrusted now.”
– explain this in the context of the story.

This line highlights the internal transformation Roger undergoes as Mrs. Jones continues to
show him unexpected kindness and respect. Initially, Roger’s life revolves around mistrust and
deception, yet Mrs. Jones’s approach challenges these feelings. Her choice to leave her purse
within Roger’s reach without directly guarding it marks a test of character for him. The line
reveals Roger’s internal struggle, as he doesn’t want to betray the trust she has shown him—he
feels compelled to earn her trust rather than undermine it.

The phrasing, “He did not want to be mistrusted now,” suggests that he has already begun to
view Mrs. Jones differently, feeling a newfound desire to honor her faith in him. This internal
change represents the story’s theme of redemption and the powerful influence compassion can
have on someone accustomed to rejection and mistrust. By leaving her purse vulnerable, Mrs.
Jones gives Roger a choice, one that allows him to experience self-respect for possibly the first
time. This moment encapsulates the idea that true character emerges when someone is trusted
rather than judged. For Roger, this realization is pivotal; it encourages him to view himself as
capable of honesty, setting him on a path toward personal growth.
2. Extract: “I were young once and I wanted things I could not get.”

This admission from Mrs. Jones serves as a bridge between her past and Roger’s present
circumstances. By revealing that she, too, has experienced desires she couldn’t fulfill, Mrs.
Jones establishes a common ground with Roger. She subtly conveys that struggles with
temptation and need are universal, not limited by age or background. This line is important as it
humanizes Mrs. Jones, showing Roger that she understands the emotions that may have led
him to try and steal. Rather than scolding him, she chooses empathy, demonstrating that she
sees herself in him.
Mrs. Jones’s openness not only deepens the reader’s understanding of her character but also
shows Roger an example of integrity. Her admission that she once wanted things but didn’t
pursue them unethically suggests the value she places on self-respect and honesty. This shared
understanding of hardship between them creates a shift in their relationship, making Roger
more receptive to her guidance. Through this line, Hughes emphasizes the story’s message that
empathy can foster growth and transformation in those who are struggling.

3. “Shoes got by devilish ways will burn your feet.” – explain the significance of this line.
The line “Shoes got by devilish ways will burn your feet” is Mrs. Jones’s metaphorical warning
to Roger about the consequences of dishonesty. In *Thank You, Ma'am,* this statement serves
as a pivotal lesson that conveys the moral cost of unethical actions. Mrs. Jones is trying to
impart to Roger that shortcuts taken through dishonest means—like stealing—may bring
temporary satisfaction but ultimately lead to regret and suffering.
This metaphor resonates deeply because it links directly to Roger’s initial reason for attempting
to steal: his desire for blue suede shoes. Mrs. Jones understands his yearning but uses this
saying to caution him that fulfilling desires through “devilish” methods will cause more harm
than good. By saying the shoes “will burn your feet,” she implies that dishonest gains come
with consequences that can be painful and damaging. Her words encourage Roger to reflect on
his actions and the choices he faces.This line reflects Mrs. Jones’s values of honesty, integrity,
and the importance of earning things through hard work rather than deceit. It also reinforces
the story’s broader theme of redemption. Through this advice, Mrs. Jones shows Roger a
different path, one grounded in respect for oneself and others. The statement suggests that a
life built on shortcuts and dishonesty will eventually cause internal strife, symbolized by
“burning.” Hughes uses this line to highlight that genuine satisfaction comes from honest
choices, a message that influences Roger and guides him toward a more conscientious path.

4. “Now here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes.”- Why Mrs.
Jone’s decision was significant?

Mrs. Jones’s decision to give Roger the money he attempted to steal is a powerful moment
that speaks to the story’s themes of kindness, trust, and redemption. By offering him the
money willingly, she provides him with a way to fulfill his desire without compromising his
integrity. This gesture is deeply symbolic, as it highlights her belief in his potential to make
better choices.
Through this act of generosity, Mrs. Jones gives Roger not only the money but a profound
lesson in dignity and respect. Her approach is an example of “tough love,” as she understands
that people, especially young ones like Roger, need guidance rather than harsh judgment. This
gesture of goodwill helps Roger realize that he can rely on the kindness of others without
resorting to unethical behavior. The effect on Roger is evident: his life is changed not by
punishment but by the faith someone places in him. Hughes uses this exchange to reinforce the
message that generosity, when combined with trust, can alter the course of someone’s life.

5. “And he barely managed to say ‘Thank you’ before she shut the door.”- explain in the
context of the story.
In Thank You, Ma'am, this line, “And he barely managed to say ‘Thank you’ before she shut the
door,” captures the impact of Mrs. Jones’s compassion on Roger. At the beginning, Roger is a
desperate teenager, attempting to steal her purse to buy blue suede shoes. However, Mrs.
Jones responds unexpectedly by bringing him to her home, feeding him, and discussing her own
past hardships. Her actions offer him kindness and empathy rather than the judgment or
punishment he likely expects. This closing moment highlights the deep, unspoken effect she has
had on him.Roger’s attempt to express gratitude—simple yet heartfelt—marks his
transformation. His inability to fully articulate his thanks shows he is overwhelmed by her
generosity. Though “thank you” may appear ordinary, in this context, it’s an acknowledgment
of the life-changing lesson he has received. Mrs. Jones’s actions have made him reconsider his
choices and perhaps feel valued in a way he hadn’t before.

The closing of the door symbolizes the end of their brief but profound interaction. Mrs. Jones
doesn’t expect anything from him; her kindness is unconditional. Yet, Roger’s “thank you”
signals that her trust and generosity will likely leave a lasting imprint on him. This moment
encapsulates the story’s central theme: the powerful, transformative impact of kindness and
compassion, which can change a person’s perspective more effectively than judgment or
punishment. The line is a quiet but poignant conclusion, affirming the profound effect empathy
can have on someone’s life.
6. Significance of the Title: Thank You, Ma'am
The title Thank You, Ma'am is significant because it encapsulates the core of the story’s
message: the impact of gratitude and the power of a second chance. The phrase “Thank You” is
Roger’s final expression of appreciation, encapsulating the lessons he has learned from Mrs.
Jones. Although his thankfulness is simple, it marks a transformative moment for him—a boy
who begins the story as a thief and ends it as someone who values respect and kindness. The
use of “Ma’am” also reflects Roger’s newfound respect for Mrs. Jones. Initially, he might see
her only as an obstacle to getting what he wants, but by the end, he recognizes her as a mentor
who treats him with dignity. The title highlights the theme of kindness as a catalyst for change,
showing that even small gestures can have significant effects. It underscores Hughes’s belief in
the importance of community and empathy, as well as the transformative effect one person’s
compassion can have on another’s life. In a world that often responds to wrongdoings with
punishment, Mrs. Jones’s compassion offers an alternative path for Roger, who finds himself
changed simply by someone’s willingness to trust and care for him.