Plot Summary/Sequence of Events - SS2 Literature Lesson Note

The novel begins with Bigger getting a job as a chauffeur for the wealthy Dalton family. Bigger is initially excited about the job, but he quickly becomes disillusioned when he realizes that the Daltons treat him like a servant.

One night, Bigger is driving Mary Dalton, the Daltons' daughter, home from a party. Mary is drunk and begins to flirt with Bigger. Bigger is initially flattered, but he becomes uncomfortable when Mary tries to kiss him. He panics and accidentally strangles her to death.

Bigger hides Mary's body in the basement of the Dalton house. He then returns to his own neighborhood and tries to act normal. However, he is soon consumed by guilt and fear.

Bigger eventually decides to confess to the murder. He is arrested and put on trial. He is found guilty and sentenced to death.