How is irony used in the story “Thank You, Ma’am”
In "Thank You, Ma’am" by Langston Hughes, irony is utilized through the actions and reactions of Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones after she is confronted by a young boy named Roger who attempts to steal her purse.
One instance of irony occurs when Mrs. Jones not only stops Roger from stealing her purse, but also takes him to her home, cleans him up, feeds him, and offers him money for the shoes he had wanted to buy. This act of kindness and understanding towards a thief is ironic because it goes against societal expectations and demonstrates Mrs. Jones' capacity for forgiveness and compassion.
Additionally, the way in which Roger reacts to Mrs. Jones' actions also adds a layer of irony to the story. Instead of feeling grateful or remorseful for his attempted theft, Roger is stunned by Mrs. Jones' kindness and is unable to understand her motivations. This sense of disbelief and confusion highlights the unexpected nature of Mrs. Jones' behavior and adds a touch of irony to the situation.
Overall, the story "Thank You, Ma'am" uses irony to underscore themes of empathy, redemption, and the complexity of human relationships, showing that people are not always what they seem and that acts of compassion can come from unexpected sources.