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Introduction
Blues for Mister Charlie is James Baldwin's second play. It was published in 1964. It is dedicated to the memory of Medgar Evers, and his widow and his children, and to the memory of the dead children of Birmingham."[1]
Plot introduction
In the aftermath of Richard Henry's murder, Lyle's trial gives way to a reflection upon racism in America.
Title explanation
'Mister Charlie' is a phrase used by African Americans that refers to the white man.[1]
Characters
Meridian Henry, a Negro Minister.
Tom, Ken, Arthur, Juanita, Lorenzo, Pete, all Negro students.
Mother Henry, Meridian Henry’s mother. Lyle Britten, a white storeowner. Jo Britten, Lyle’s wife. Parnell James, editor of the local newspaper. Richard, Meridian Henry’s son. Papa D., owner of a juke joint.
Hazel, Lillian, Susan, Ralph, Ellis, Rev. Phelps, George, all white townspeople.
The State
Counsel for the Bereaved
Congregation of Rev. Henry’s church, Pallbearers, Blacktown, Whitetown
References
- ^ a b New York Times, Theater: 'Blues for Mister Charlie' by Howard Taubman, April 24, 1964 [1]
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