Two Memorable Characters Created By Hughes

Two memorable characters created by Langston Hughes are Jesse B. Semple (Simple) and ‘Aunt Sue’ in his notable works.

In the vast tapestry of literature, certain characters stand out like vibrant brushstrokes on the canvas of storytelling. When it comes to memorable characters, few wield the pen with as much finesse as Hughes. We will talk here about two.

Prepare to be captivated by the vivid worlds and indelible personalities brought to life by Hughes’ literary prowess.

Two Memorable Characters Created By Hughes

Langston Hughes created numerous memorable characters in his works. Two of these characters, Jesse B. Semple (also known as Simple) and Aunt Sue, stand out for their vivid personalities and the insights they provide into the African American experience during Hughes’ time.

Jesse B. Semple (Simple):

Description: Simple is a fictional character who serves as the protagonist in a series of short stories written by Hughes. He is a middle-aged African American man living in Harlem, New York. Simple is known for his humorous and down-to-earth approach to life. He often shares his observations and opinions on various social and political issues.

Personality: Simple is characterized by his wit, wisdom, and sharp sense of humor. Despite facing racial discrimination and economic challenges, Simple maintains a resilient and optimistic outlook. His simplicity is not a lack of intelligence but rather a deliberate choice to navigate life with straightforward honesty.

Role: Simple becomes a mouthpiece for Hughes to comment on the social and political climate of the time. Through Simple’s conversations with his friends at the bar, Hughes addresses issues such as racism, inequality, and the struggles of everyday life. One of Simple’s memorable quotes is, “I’m a simple man. All I want is enough sleep for two normal men, enough whiskey for three, and enough women for four.”

In one word, Simple is a character of contradictions – humorous yet poignant, perceptive yet seemingly naïve.

Aunt Sue:

Description: Aunt Sue is another memorable character created by Hughes, appearing in his short story “One Christmas Eve.” She is an elderly African American woman who becomes the central figure in the narrative. Aunt Sue lives in a modest apartment and takes care of her nephew, Jim, providing a nurturing and stable environment for him.

Personality: Aunt Sue is portrayed as a warm, nurturing, and resilient woman. Despite facing financial challenges, she embodies strength and kindness. Her character reflects the strength of African American women during a time when they were often the backbone of their families and communities.

Role: Aunt Sue’s character serves as a lens through which Hughes explores the importance of family, resilience, and the power of love. Her determination to create a joyful Christmas for her nephew despite limited resources underscores the themes of perseverance and the significance of familial bonds.

In summary, Langston Hughes created characters like Simple and Aunt Sue who not only entertained readers with their humor and warmth but also provided a deeper understanding of the African American experience in the early to mid-20th century. Through these characters, Hughes skillfully addressed social issues, celebrated resilience, and highlighted the strength found within individuals and communities facing adversity.

What Are Two Important Works By Hughes?

Langston Hughes, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, was a prolific poet, novelist, playwright, and essayist. Two of his important works that are widely celebrated for their impact on American literature and culture are “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” and “The Weary Blues.”

“The Negro Speaks of Rivers” (1921):

This poem is a powerful exploration of African American history and identity. Hughes wrote it when he was just 18 years old, and it reflects a deep understanding of the African diaspora and the historical experiences of Black people.

The poem is structured around the metaphor of rivers, symbolizing the ancient and enduring connection of Black people to the history of civilization. It spans geographically and chronologically, referencing the Euphrates, the Nile, the Congo, and the Mississippi.

“The Negro Speaks of Rivers” is considered important because it marked Hughes’ emergence as a poetic voice that celebrated the richness of Black culture and history. It was a departure from the prevailing literary norms of the time and served as a declaration of cultural pride and resilience.

“The Weary Blues” (1926):

This collection is significant for its innovative fusion of music and poetry. The title poem, “The Weary Blues,” captures the experience of listening to a blues musician in a Harlem nightclub. The poem is characterized by its rhythmic language and vivid imagery, mirroring the syncopated and emotional qualities of blues music.

Hughes was a key figure in introducing and popularizing jazz and blues elements in poetry, and “The Weary Blues” is a prime example of his contribution to the literary and cultural landscape. The collection as a whole reflects the vibrancy and struggles of urban Black life in the 1920s.

“The Weary Blues” is considered important for its role in shaping the Harlem Renaissance and for Hughes’ ability to give a voice to the experiences and emotions of Black Americans through a distinctive blend of music and verse.

Both of these works are important in the context of American literature because they not only showcase Hughes’ literary talent but also contribute to a broader cultural and social dialogue. They celebrate the richness of African American history and culture, and they were instrumental in challenging the prevailing stereotypes and prejudices of the time. Through these works, Hughes made a lasting impact on the literary canon and paved the way for future generations of Black writers and artists.

What Makes Hughes Such a Great Poet?

Langston Hughes is a great poet for several reasons. First, his poetry speaks to the heart and soul of everyday people. He uses simple words and vivid images to capture the experiences of African Americans during a time of racial inequality. Hughes’ poems are like snapshots of life, reflecting both joy and struggle.

Moreover, Hughes is a master of rhythm and musicality in his writing. His poems often have a rhythmic quality that echoes the cadence of jazz and blues, adding a unique and captivating element to his work. This musicality makes his poetry enjoyable to read and hear.

Additionally, Hughes’ poems are socially conscious, addressing important issues of his time. He gives a voice to the marginalized and explores the complexities of identity. His ability to blend the personal with the political makes his poetry both relatable and thought-provoking.

In summary, Langston Hughes’ greatness as a poet lies in his ability to connect with people through simple yet powerful language, his skillful use of rhythm, and his commitment to addressing social issues with a compassionate and insightful perspective.

Final Words

Langston Hughes left a lasting impact through his memorable characters, like Jesse B. Semple (Simple) and ‘Aunt Sue.’ These characters aren’t just in his stories; they’re like timeless symbols, reflecting our culture. Simple, with his cleverness, and ‘Aunt Sue,’ representing a cultural spirit, help us understand the rich history of the Harlem Renaissance.

 Hughes wants readers to think about society, its challenges, and connections through these characters. In simple terms, Simple and ‘Aunt Sue’ show how great Hughes was at telling stories, and they rightfully belong among the unforgettable characters of their time.