What are the main ideas in 'The Lesson' by Toni Cade Bambara Short Story?

One aspect to note in 'The Lesson' is the character development. Sylvia, the main character, is a tough and street - smart girl. Through Miss Moore's 'lesson' which involves taking the children to a high - end toy store, Sylvia begins to question the economic disparities in society. It makes her realize the unfairness that exists between different social classes.

One main theme is economic inequality. Bambara shows how the children are exposed to a world of extreme wealth in the toy store, which is so different from their own lives. Another theme could be education, as Miss Moore is trying to teach the children an important lesson about society through this experience.

The themes include social class differences. We see how the children from a lower - class background react to the extravagance in the toy store. It also has a theme of powerlessness. The kids feel powerless in the face of such blatant economic disparities that they witness in the store.

One of the main themes is social inequality. The story shows how different social classes experience life. Another theme is the power of education as it can open eyes to the unfairness in society.

The main characters in 'The Lesson' are Miss Moore and Sylvia. Miss Moore is an educated woman who wants to expose the children to a different world. Sylvia, on the other hand, is a young girl who is initially resistant to Miss Moore's lessons but gradually starts to understand. There are also other children in the group who are part of the story's events.

Bambara uses actions and reactions of the characters to develop them. When they enter the toy store, some of the children are in awe, like they've never seen such things. Sylvia, for instance, is a bit defiant towards Miss Moore at the start but as the story progresses, her views start to change. Also, the description of their appearance and the way they carry themselves gives us an idea of who they are.

Miss Moore is shown as a character with a purpose. She is trying to open the eyes of the children. The kids are developed in a way that we can see their individual personalities. Sylvia is proud and doesn't like to be made to feel inferior. Sugar, on the other hand, seems more open - minded. Through their dialogue and actions during the trip to the store, we get to know them better.

The themes in Toni Cade Bambara's short stories include identity. African - American characters are constantly in a process of defining themselves in a society that may not always be accepting. Resistance is also there. Whether it's against racism or sexism, her characters show a spirit of resistance. And there's a sense of family and heritage, with characters being influenced by their family backgrounds and cultural heritages.

The main theme might be about human kindness and compassion in challenging circumstances.

One aspect to consider in 'A Tender Man' is the character development. The main character might show certain qualities that are gradually revealed throughout the story. For example, his tenderness could be expressed in his interactions with others, like how he treats his family or friends.