There are often female characters at the center. For example, she might have characters who are young African - American women trying to find their place in society. Some characters could be mothers or grandmothers who play important roles in family and community.
In her short stories, you'll find a variety of characters. There could be hard - working men who are trying to provide for their families in the face of economic hardships. There are also likely to be children characters whose innocence and naivete contrast with the harsh realities of the adult world. And, as I mentioned before, strong female characters who are the pillars of their families and communities.
One of the main themes is race. Dorothy West often explored the experiences and challenges of African - Americans. Another theme could be family, as many of her stories might touch on family relationships within the African - American community. Also, the concept of identity, both personal and cultural, is likely to be a significant theme in her short stories.
Often, her main characters are strong - willed. They might be women who have to endure a lot but still manage to keep their spirits up. For example, they could be facing poverty and discrimination but still strive for a better life.
You'll find a lot of social climbers in her stories too. People who are more concerned with appearances and status than with true values. They go to all sorts of lengths to be seen in the right circles, attend the fanciest parties, and be associated with the 'right' people.
There are characters who might be envious of those who get to use the sun parlor more often. They may have a sense of longing for the comfort and beauty that the room represents. And some characters are more indifferent, not really caring much about the sun parlor at all, focusing on other aspects of their lives.
The theme of modernity and the changing world also appears. Her short stories might touch on how society was evolving and how individuals, especially women, were adapting to new ways of life. For example, in some stories, she shows the impact of new social norms on women's relationships and self - identity.
The themes include social satire. Dorothy Parker often mocks the pretentiousness and hypocrisy in society. For example, she might write about upper - class people with their false airs. Also, loneliness is a theme. Her characters sometimes feel isolated in a world that seems full of people but lacks true connection.
Lord Peter Wimsey is a central character. He is a detective with a sharp mind and a love for solving complex mysteries. He is also from an aristocratic background, which gives him certain privileges and a unique perspective.
Another important character is Harriet Vane. She is a writer and becomes an important figure in the series. She has her own strong will and intellect, and her relationship with Lord Peter Wimsey adds a layer of depth to the stories. In some novels, their relationship evolves while they are involved in solving various mysteries.
Dorothy, she is the brave girl from Kansas who finds herself in Oz. The Scarecrow, who is in search of a brain, is also a main character. The baby is the new addition that sets the story in motion. There could be side characters like Glinda the Good Witch who might offer guidance or assistance to Dorothy and the Scarecrow in taking care of the baby.
Lord Peter Wimsey is at the heart of Dorothy L Sayers' detective fiction. He is from the upper class, which gives him access to certain circles and also influences his way of thinking. Harriet Vane is another key character. She is a writer, and her presence adds a different dimension to the stories. There are also other characters like Bunter, Lord Peter's manservant, who is loyal and often assists in the investigations.