Blues for Mister Charlie
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 First edition cover | |
| Author | James Baldwin |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Play |
| Publisher | Dial Press |
Publication date | 1964 |
| Publication place | United States |
Blues for Mister Charlie is James Baldwin's second play, a tragedy in three acts. It was first produced and published in 1964.[1] 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."[2]
Plot introduction
In a small Southern town, a white man murders a black man, then throws his body in the weeds. In the aftermath of Richard Henry's murder, the trial of store owner Lyle Britten gives way to a reflection upon racism in America. The play is loosely based on the Emmett Till murder that occurred in Money, Mississippi, before the Civil Rights Movement began.[3]
Title explanation
"Mister Charlie" is a phrase used by African Americans that refers to the white man.[2]
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
- ^ "Blues for Mister Charlie", Encyclopaedia Britannica.
- ^ a b New York Times, Theater: 'Blues for Mister Charlie' by Howard Taubman, April 24, 1964 [1]
- ^ Blues for Mister Charlie at stageplays.com
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