Driving Miss Daisy Summary & Key Insights

Alfred Uhry's "Driving Miss Daisy" chronicles the complex and evolving relationship between Daisy Werthan, a stubborn, aging Jewish woman from Atlanta, and her African-American chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, over the course of nearly three decades. The play, and subsequently the film adaptation, follows their journey from initial resistance and mutual distrust to deep affection and unlikely friendship.

The story begins in 1948 with Daisy, a proud but increasingly frail woman, being forced by her son, Boolie Werthan, to hire a driver due to her increasingly erratic driving. Boolie, though loving, is exasperated by his mother's stubborn refusal to acknowledge her declining capabilities. Hoke, a devoutly religious and patient man, is hired, initially met with a torrent of prejudice and disapproval from Daisy, who views him as "one of them" and is initially resistant to being driven by a Black man.

Their relationship forms the heart of the play. Daisy's initial disdain slowly gives way to grudging respect and, eventually, genuine fondness. Hoke's gentle nature and unwavering dedication consistently win her over. He displays extraordinary patience and tolerance, absorbing her racism and occasional outbursts with quiet dignity. He teaches her how to behave with the other Black people he meets, challenging her deeply ingrained prejudices through his quiet acts of kindness and dignity.

The play utilizes their evolving relationship to explore significant themes of racism, aging, and changing social dynamics in the American South. We witness the gradual dismantling of Daisy’s ingrained prejudices as she gets to know Hoke on a personal level, experiencing his intelligence, faith, and innate decency. His presence forces her to confront her own biases, highlighting the hypocrisy often present in individuals clinging to deeply rooted societal views.

Their shared experiences, from mundane errands to significant events like attending a synagogue service, strengthen their bond. We see Hoke not only as a driver but as a confidant, a friend, and a vital part of Daisy's life, providing companionship and support as she ages. He becomes more than just an employee; he becomes a cherished member of her family.

Boolie, while initially the catalyst for their relationship, plays a secondary yet crucial role. He represents a generation struggling to reconcile with the past and embrace the changing social landscape. His love for his mother and concern for her well-being are apparent, though he sometimes struggles to understand her perspectives and stubbornness.

The play concludes with Daisy in her late eighties, frail but content, her life deeply intertwined with Hoke's. Their relationship transcends the simple employer-employee dynamic, showcasing a powerful testament to the human capacity for connection and personal growth, even amidst the backdrop of societal prejudice and the realities of aging. The final scene emphasizes the profound impact of their unlikely friendship and the enduring power of human connection across racial and generational divides.