theme essay on a raisin in the sun

A Raisin in The Sun

Introduction to a raisin in the sun.

A Raisin in The Sun is a popular play by Lorraine Hansberry . It was performed for the first time in 1959. Hansberry has borrowed the title from a popular poem by Langston Hughes , “ Harlem .” The play revolves around an African American family living in Chicago who wants to bring improvement in its status through the insurance that their widowed mother, Lena Younger, is going to receive after her husband’s death. All the family members are dreaming of having a better lifestyle after having this amount, but their dreams ended in smoke when the money seems to have gone as easily as it has come.

Summary of A Raisin in The Sun

The play presents the story of a few weeks from the life of the Youngers family, an African American family living in the poor neighborhood of Chicago’s Southern area during the 50s. The play starts with the Youngers discussing how to spend the money they are going to receive from an insurance company after the death of their patriarch. The total amount of the policy is $10,000 to be received through a check. As the money is expected to arrive, all the family members are presenting their individual ideas on how to spend the money carefully not to let it go wasted. Each one of them has an idea. Mama, Lena, the mother of the Youngers, knows the importance of a house, the reason that she insists that they must purchase a house in some good neighborhood.

However, Walter Lee, the male member of the family has his own plans; he wants to make an investment in the liquor business with the partnership of his friend Bobo and Willy, the street- smarts . His optimism about the success of his investment has made him gleeful so much so that he hoodwinks the family by giving the money to Willy for the liquor store investment in his hope to reveal it later when he succeeds. Despite his optimism, he is unable to convince even his own wife who conjoins his mother in having a house of their own. Also, Mama disagrees with the plan because it is against religion. However, she gives the rest of the money to Walter for the business investment on the condition of reserving three thousand dollars for her daughter’s education.

During these two supposedly relieving plans, the female member, Beneatha, Walter’s sister has her own plan of pulling the family out of this mess through the money she wants to use in her medical education. She is the representation of ‘new woman’ as against the traditional opinion of a female character . Like her name, everyone is beneath her . She was self-centered at the beginning of the playmaking the family sacrifices their desires to accommodate her expensive hobbies, which keep changing from time to time. Her love interests George Murchison, and Joseph Asagai influences her life choices . George was a wealthy black man who tries to ignore the accomplishments of black people and fit into this white-dominated society and a narcissist who shows off in front of Beneatha by talking about intellectual concepts.

Whereas Joseph, a Yoruba student teaches Beneatha the rich culture and heritage of her ancestors in Africa and embraces her identity as a black woman. He later proposes to marry him and go back to Nigeria and continue her medical practice. Beneatha thinks that as the family does not desire to join the world ruled by the white, she resorts to her identity recognition by recalling African heritage at the end of the play.

The competing dreams of the Younger family members make them unable to reconcile with each other. Meanwhile, Ruth , the wife of Walter Lee, comes to know about her pregnancy that she thinks would add to the family’s financial woes. When both husband and wife are considering the abortion, Mama, the matriarchal figure of the house, pays down payment for the purchase of the house. Her idea of having their own residence in Clybourne Park may help the family pull out of poverty . On the other hand, the local people send their representation, Mr. Lindner with an offer for them to stay away from the area by giving them money. This house is located in Clybourne Park, an entirely white neighborhood. When the Youngers refuse, Walter faces the stark reality of losing his investment through his friend, Willy Haris, who has run away with his money. Albeit, the family learns that they lost the money to Willy they refuse to take money from Mr. Linder.

Beneatha also adds to the family problems by rejecting George Murchison and accepting Joseph Asagai who wants her to complete her medical education first. During the breakup with Beneatha, George says that he didn’t show interest in her because they could talk about ‘quiet desperation. Although the family moves to the new house, the future is not safe but they are optimistic about staying united to win success and live a better life.

Major Themes in A Raisin in The Sun  

• The American Dream: The play shows the theme of the American Dream through the Younger family. Each member of the family has a unique dream that they want to materialize with the insurance money of their patriarch. However, the best dream any of them has is of Mama who thinks that having a good house in a decent, white locality would provide a better future to the next generation. Walter’s dream of having a good liquor store, too, is an American Dream, though, it is another thing that he trusts his partner who runs away with it. Similarly, Beneatha’s dream of having a medical degree could be associated with an individual American Dream. However, it is Mama’s American Dream in which lies the dream of everyone; a better house in a better neighborhood, the reason that Walter flatly refuses to budge from his stand later when facing Mr. Lindner.
• Female Identity: The play presents three towering feminine figures in the play; Mama, who is heading the family after the death of her husband and has a claim over her husband’s insurance money, her daughter Beneatha who sees the family future in her own prospect as a medical professional and Ruth, her daughter-in-law who sees the future of her children. All three of them strive against the patriarchal figure of Walter Lee who dreams of becoming a good investor by investing the insurance money in the liquor business with his partner. Although he wastes the money, Mama’s idea of having a house of their own rules supreme in the end. Beneatha also takes the lead by turning away Murchison and challenges Walter’s narrow-mindedness.
• Masculinity: The play shows the theme of masculinity in the debilitating role of Walter Lee when he shirks from his responsibility of taking the lead and helping the family stand up to face the prejudice prevalent in Chicago and economic challenges. Instead, he squanders away the money of his father’s insurance, he feels that his dream of sending his son to college and purchasing a Cadillac were just wishful thinking of a young man. He comes to the point and ultimately rejects Mr. Lindner’s offer of leaving the neighborhood to find some other place for their house for which her mother has already paid.
• African Identity: The theme of African identity in the play, A Raisin in the Sun, is obvious, for it is a play of the Youngers, an African American family, facing prejudice on fulfilling their Mama’s desire of having a house in the white neighborhood. Even before they shift, Mr. Lindner comes to warn them to stay away and makes an offer. This prejudice reminds the Youngers of their background. The arrival of Asagai and Beneatha’s love for him makes it more prominent when she becomes too eager to learn about African heritage.
• Class Differences: The theme of class differences is accentuated when Mama advises all her children that getting a house in the white neighborhood in the city of Chicago is their key to the future. However, Mr. Lindner’s arrival shows them the reality that they can get more money by not raising their status which, in his words, is not moving to their locality. This class difference, in the words of Mr. Lindner, would cause rift and unease in their neighborhood that they do not want. However, the final refusal of Walter Lee is rather an intransigence when the Youngers see this difference as an obstacle to their efforts for their future improvements.
• Significance of Family: The theme of the significance of family has been shown through Mama’s taking lead in thinking that a permanent place at good locality would rather lead to family’s better future than the success of each individual, though it could be that Walter Lee’s investment could also lead to the same success. However, Walter Lee’s stupidity of trusting every individual without consulting the collective family wisdom leads him to squander money rather quickly. The same goes for Beneatha’s case as she is also thinking on individual lines for her medical success only, for if she succeeds it is only her success, while in Mama’s success lies the success of every individual on account of her centrality in the household.
• Marginalization of African Americans: Before the Civil Rights Movement, African Americans were not seen as equals. Mama sees her efforts after receiving her husband’s insurance coming to fruition. However, she is unaware of the strength of the hatred of the white community that it could be strong enough to hinder their move to a better neighborhood. The final intransigence to Mr. Lindner’s suggestion after some thoughts to his lucrative offer in return for their decision of not moving invites second thought of refusal from Walter Lee. It is because he sees it as an effort of marginalization of their family on the basis of racial difference.
• Hopes and Aspirations: The play shows the theme of hopes and aspirations in the dreams of the Youngers. Every Younger individual harbor a dream ; Mama’s dream of having a house in a good neighborhood, Walter Lee’s dream of having a good business to uplift their status, and Beneatha’s dream of having a medical degree. But the fulfillment of the hopes and aspirations of all the Youngers depends on the insurance money. Once it is squandered by Walter Lee, all of them face frustration and disappointment.
• Pride: The theme of pride rules supreme in the play in that the Youngers have little else to lose except their pride. Therefore, when it comes to their pride in having a house, they furiously turn to intransigence toward Mr. Lindner for making them stay away from the locality.
• Lack of Communication: The theme of communication is significant as every individual in the Younger household is unable to communicate what they want to do. Although Walter Lee takes the lead, he also knows that Mama, Beneatha, and even his wife Ruth have failed to understand his investment. This is a lack of communication that none of them could talk or understand each other’s plans or desires.

Major Characters of A Raisin in The Sun

• Walter Lee Younger: Walter Lee Younger is the only patriarch in the family and also the only person to have tried to materialize his dream though without any tangible success. Son of Mama and her late husband, Walter is married to Ruth with two children. His driving job is assisting the family to make both ends meet, while Beneatha is only a helping hand. His only aspiration is to start his business as a liquor store that would grow and change the family fortune. However, his unpredictable behavior causes the loss of business in which his friend, Willy, steals the invested money, and the only hope of the family of having a patriarch leading the way ends up in smoke.
• Lena Younger (Mama): Mama, the dominating matriarchal figure of the family, is Lena Younger, whose husband, Walter senior, has recently died, leaving for his family a good sum of $10,000 of his insurance policy. Mama’s sanguinity lies in thinking about having a proper house in some good locality that could improve the family fortune. The sanguinity of her suggestion and then the payment of the down payment show significance when Walter Lee sees his money gone with his friend who has fled. Her wisdom has saved them from total failure, and they have something to take a stand against Mr. Lindner’s unjust offer.
• Beneatha Younger: Beneatha Younger is the modern face of the Younger family having innovating thinking and a new philosophical approach toward her own race. She thinks that her medical education could pull the family out of this mess. Her rigors on her speech improvement show its results in her talkativeness. She discusses philosophical ideas of religion, class, race, and education with her fiancé as well as family members. Yet, her American Dream of improving her career seems to be selfish and individualistic.
• Ruth Younger: Ruth is a source of the future generation as Travis’s mother and the wife of Walter Lee. Living in a constant tension of improvised living and poverty has taken years from her life, making her old before her time. Working constantly has kept her busy for a decade yet she does not complain and constantly nudges Walter to do more for their son.
• Joseph Asagai: Asagai is not only the fiancé of Beneatha but he also seems to be her philosophical mentor who fills her mind with new ideas about their rich heritage and racial privilege. His Nigerian roots have made him proud of his race, forcing him to realize Beneatha that she is not from the inferior race. He desires to take her to Nigeria after their marriage.
• George Murchison: Although not superior to Asagai, Murchison is another suiter of Beneatha who constantly courts her and succeeds, too. However, his willingness to be subservient to the white culture does not impress Beneatha much on account of his competitive rather than collaborative approach to life.
• Travis Younger: As the only male child in the household, Travis is suffering from the slackness and stupidity of his father, Walter Lee, who does not have good work and a career. He has had to work to earn money besides playing with the neighboring children. His household life is restricted to the sofa in that dingy, little apartment.
• Mr. Karl Lindner: Mr. Lindner represents not only the white community but also the white thinking about the African American community. His coaxingly threatening warnings fall flat when he confronts Walter and Mama. Although his offer sways his opinion at home, Walter, later, stands up to face him, rejecting his offer.
• Willy Harris: Although Willy Harris is Walter’s friend, he does not appear on the stage and only gets mentioned when he starts a liquor business or runs away with the money.
• Mrs. Johnson: A neighborhood lady, Mrs. Johnson’s significance in the play lies in her persuasion of the family for not leaving the neighborhood.

Writing Style of A Raisin in The Sun

A Raisin in the Sun is written by Lorraine Hansberry. She used the dialect of the African American community that is not only distinct but also pure. The characters speak in their domestic setting and individual style as Beneatha and Asagai show their superior and formal education even in everyday conversation, while Mama, Mrs. Johnson, and Ruth demonstrate their crude language. The diction and tone of the play, too, suit the community, neighborhood as well as main audience . Lorraine mostly turns to irony , sarcasm , and other devices of figurative language to make her dialogs effective.

Analysis of the Literary Devices in A Raisin in The Sun

• Action: The main action of the play comprises the American Dream of the Youngers that they are going to realize on an individual level from the insurance money they are going to get after the death of the patriarch. The rising action occurs when Ruth Walter comes to know about her pregnancy and the falling action occurs when Walter Lee comes to know that his money is gone.
• Anaphora : The play shows examples of anaphora such as, i. Anybody who talks to me has got to be a good-for-nothing loudmouth, ain’t he? And what you know about who is just a good-for-nothing loudmouth? Charlie Atkins was just a “good-for-nothing loudmouth” too, wasn’t he! When he wanted me to go in the dry-cleaning business with him. And now —he’s grossing a hundred thousand a year (Act-I) ii. you just sip your coffee, see, and say easy like that you been thinking ’bout that deal Walter Lee is so interested in, ’bout the store and all, and sip some more coffee, like what you saying ain’t really that important to you— And the next thing you know, she be listening good and asking you questions and when I come home —I can tell her the details. This ain’t no ɻy-by- night proposition, baby. I mean we ɹgured it out, me and Willy and Bobo. iii. You ain’t looked at it and you don’t aim to have to speak on that again? You ain’t even looked at it and you have decided— (Act-II) The examples show the repetitious use of “good-for-nothing”, “sit your coffee” and “You ain’t.”
• Allusion : The play shows good use of different allusions as given in the below examples, i. Asagai—Joseph Asagai. He’s an African boy I met on campus. He’s been studying in Canada all summer. (Act-I) ii. I am from the Clybourne ParkImprovement Association and we have had it brought to our attention at the last meeting that you people—or at least your mother—has bought a piece of residential property at. (Act-II) iii. BENEATHA George Murchison! I wouldn’t marry him if he was Adam and I was Eve! (Act-III) The first example shows the reference to a region, the second to a place in Chicago, and the third to Adam and Eve.
• Antagonist : Walter Lee Younger is the antagonist as well as the protagonist of the play. It is because he not only squanders the money but also becomes a responsible patriarch by the end of the play after he refuses Mr. Lindner’s offer.
• Conflict : The play shows both external and internal conflicts. The external conflict is going on between the Youngers and the economic situation including the white dominance, while the internal conflict is going on in Walter Lee’s mind about his responsibility and his attitude .
• Characters: The play, A Raisin in The Sun, shows both static as well as dynamic characters . Lena Younger and Walter Lee both are dynamic characters as they show a considerable transformation in their behavior and conduct by the end of the play. However, all other characters are static as they do not show or witness any transformation such as Mrs. Johnson, Beneatha, Ruth, Lindner, and even Asagai.
• Climax : The climax in the play occurs when Bobo arrives to inform the Youngers that Willy has run away with their invested money.
• Epigraph : The play shows the use of the epigraph as given in the example below, i. What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up Like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a rose – And then run? Does it sink like rotten meat Or crust and sugar over – Like a syrupy sweet? This short extract from the poem of Langston Hughes shows the use of an epigraph.
• Foreshadowing : The play shows many instances of foreshadows as given below, i. You mean you didn’t read ’bout them colored people that was bombed out their place out there. (Act-I) The mention of colored and bombed shows the situation that the Youngers are going to face in the area where they move.
• Hyperbole : The play shows various examples of hyperboles such as, i. So you would rather be Mr. Arnold than be his chauʃeur. So—I would rather be living in Buckingham Palace. (Act-I) ii. I seen one marching out of there like Napoleon yesterday. (Act-I) Both of these examples exaggerate things as Walter cannot be Arnold nor can he live in Buckingham Palace. Also, nobody can be Napoleon.
• Imagery : Imagery is used to make readers perceive things involving their five senses. For example, i. It is morning dark in the living room, TRAVIS is asleep on the make-down bed at center. An alarm clock sounds from within the bedroom at right, and presently RUTH enters from that room and closes the door behind her. She crosses sleepily toward the window. As she passes her sleeping son she reaches down and shakes him a little. At the window she raises the shade and a dusky Southside morning light comes in feebly. She calls a pot with water and puts it on to boil. She calls to the boy, between yawns, in a slightly muffled voice . (Act-I) ii. She cannot help speaking directly to him. An imploring quality in her voice , her manner, makes her almost like a girl now. (II) These two examples show images of light, color, movement, and sound shown in the instructions of the play.
• Irony : The play shows the use of irony when Bobo comes to the Youngers to inform them that Willy has run away with the money, a fact that the audiences are already aware of but the Youngers are not.
• Metaphor : A Raisin in The Sun shows good use of various metaphors as given in the examples below, i. So you would rather be Mr. Arnold than be his chauʃeur. So—I would rather be living in Buckingham Palace. (Act-I) ii. So you butchered up a dream of mine—you—who always talking ’bout your children’s dreams …. (Act-II) iii. You mean you ain’t read ’bout them colored people that was bombed out their place out there?. (Act-II) These examples show that several things have been compared directly in the novel such as the first shows comparing her husband to Mr. Arnold, the second shows comparing Mama to a butcher, and the third shows white people as soldiers throwing bombs at the colored people.
• Mood : The play, A Raisin in The Sun , shows various moods; it starts with quite a realistic and bitter mood but becomes highly sarcastic and critical with the passage of time until it reaches its end which is depressive and serious.
• Motif : Most important motifs of the play are music, money, Beneatha’s hair, and house.
• Protagonist : Walter Lee is the protagonist of the play, A Raisin in The Sun. The reason is that it is he who shows his patriarchal responsibility by the end despite losing money.
• Setting : The setting of the play, A Raisin in The Sun , is the poor neighborhood of the South Side of Chicago.
• Simile : The play shows good use of various similes as given in the examples below, i. About to march out of here with that head looking just like chickens slept in it. (Act-I) ii. I always thinks like Booker T. Washington said that time— “Education has spoiled many a good plow hand”—. (Act-II) iii. Walter Lee, fix your tie and tuck your shirt in, you look like somebody’s hoodlum! (Act-III) These are similes as the use of the word “like” shows the comparison between different things. For example, the first one shows this comparison between the head and the coop, and then between Walter and Washington, and then between Walter’s appearance and that of hoodlums.

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A Raisin in the Sun

By lorraine hansberry, a raisin in the sun themes, the american dream.

The long-standing appeal of A Raisin in the Sun lies in the fact that the family's dreams and aspirations for a better life are not confined to their race, but can be identified with by people of all backgrounds. Even though what that "better life" may look like is different for each character, the underlying motivation is universal. The central conflict of the play lies in Walter's notion of this American dream. Walter buys into the middle-class ideology of materialism. The notion of the self-made man who starts with nothing and achieves great wealth through hard work seems innocuous enough, but the idea can become pernicious if it evolves into an idolization of wealth and power. In the beginning, Hansberry shows how Walter envies Charlie Atkins' dry-cleaning business because it grosses $100,000 a year. He ignores Ruth's objection to his potential business partner's questionable character and dismisses his mother's moral objection to achieving his goals by running a liquor store. The liquor store is a means to an end, and Walter is desperate for his dreams to come to fruition. That same Machiavellian ethic is demonstrated when Walter plans to accept Mr. Lindner's offer. Walter is not concerned with the degrading implications of the business deal. It is simply a way to recover some of the lost money. However, Hansberry challenges Walter's crude interpretation of the American dream by forcing him to actually carry out the transaction in front of his son. Walter's inability to deal with Mr. Lindner marks a significant revision of his interpretation of the American dream, a dream that inherently prioritizes justice and equality over money.

Female Gender Identity

Three generations of women are represented in A Raisin in the Sun . Lena, who is in her early thirties, becomes the default head of the household upon the passing of her husband, Walter Sr. Raised in the South during an era where blacks' very lives were in danger because of the prevalence of lynching, Lena moved to the North with the hopes of leading a better life. The move up North was significant in that she had hopes of a better life for herself. Although Lena is ahead of her times in some respects, her dreams and aspirations are largely linked to her family's well-being, rather than to her own. Scholar Claudia Tate attributes Lena's low expectations for her individual self to gender conditioning - a term used to describe the expectation that a woman's goals and dreams be linked to her family alone. Lena tolerates her husband's womanizing and remains loyal to him even though they suffer under the same impoverished conditions throughout their marriage.

Walter's wife, Ruth, is in her early thirties. She is different from Lena in that she vocalizes her frustrations with her spouse, Walter. Ultimately, however, she seeks to please him, talking positively about the business to Lena on his behalf, encouraging Beneatha not to antagonize her brother so much, and being willing to work several jobs so that the family can afford to move into the new house.

Beneatha, a young feminist college student, is the least tolerant of society's unequal treatment and expectations of women. Beneatha constantly challenges Walter's chauvinism, and has no time for shallow men like George Murchison , who do not respect her ideas. Through these three women, Hansberry skillfully illustrates how women's ideas about their identity have changed over time.

Masculinity

"What defines a man?" is a critical question that Hansberry struggles with throughout the entire play. In many ways, the most debilitating affronts Walter faces are those which relate to his identity as a man, whether it be in his role as father, husband, or son. Being a father to Travis appears to be the role that Walter values the most. He sincerely wants to be perceived as honorable in his son's eyes. Knowing the family has little money to spare, Walter gives Travis a dollar when he asks for fifty cents. Walter chooses the liquor store investment not just to make more money for himself, but also to be better able to provide for his wife and family. He wants to be able to give Ruth pearls and a Cadillac convertible; he wants to be able to send his son to the college of his choice. As a son, he wants to walk in his father's footsteps and provide for his mother in her old age. Walter is framed by the examples of his father and son. At first, Walter is willing to degrade himself in order to obtain these goals, but he faces a critical turning point when he reconsiders Mr. Lindner's offer. Ultimately, he chooses the honorable path so that he can stand before his son Travis with pride.

Afrocentrism

There is a strong motif of afrocentrism throughout the play. Unlike many of her black contemporaries, Lorraine Hansberry grew up in a family that was well aware of its African heritage, and embraced its roots. Lorraine's uncle, Leo Hansberry, was a professor of African history at Howard University, a well-known, historically black college in Washington, D.C. Hansberry's uncle actually taught Kwame Nkrumah, a revolutionary who fought for the independence of the Gold Coast from British rule. Hansberry's afrocentrism is expressed mainly through Beneatha's love for Asagai. Asagai, a Nigerian native, is who Beneatha seeks out during her search for her own identity. She is eager to learn about African culture, language, music, and dress. The playwright is well ahead of her times in her creation of these characters. Hansberry is able to dispel many of the myths about Africa, and concretely depict the parallel struggles both Africans and African-Americans must face.

Class Tensions Within the Black Community

A Raisin in the Sun is not just about race; class tensions are a prominent issue throughout the play. George Murchison is Beneatha's well-to-do boyfriend. Although he is educated and wealthy, Beneatha is still trying to sort out her feelings about him. Her sister-in-law, Ruth, does not understand Beneatha's ambivalence: he is good-looking, and able to provide well for Beneatha. However, Beneatha is planning to be a doctor, and is not dependent on "marrying well" for her financial security. Hansberry also hints that marriage into the Murchison family is not very probable. Beneatha says, "Oh, Mama- The Murchisons are honest-to-God-real- live -rich colored people, and the only people in the world who are more snobbish than rich white people are rich colored people. I thought everybody knew that I've met Mrs. Murchison. She's a scene!" Beneatha is sensitive to the reality that even though the two families are black, they are deeply divided. Beneatha suggests that class distinctions are more pronounced amongst African-Americans than between African-Americans and whites. Despite their degree of wealth or education, blacks in America were discriminated against. Wealthy African-Americans had limitations on schools, housing, and occupations just like their poor counterparts. Mrs. Murchison's 'snobbishness' is emblematic of a desperate yet futile attempt to be seen as different from poor blacks and thus gain acceptance by whites. However, radical legislative and social change proves to be the only substantive solution to America's problem.

A Raisin in the Sun Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for A Raisin in the Sun is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

I'm sorry, what passage are you referring to? Please include all information in your posts.

Mama tells Walter that something is eating him up, Something that has to do with more than just money. What do you think it is?

Although Walter has a family, wife, and a job, he continues to live with his mother. As a result, he feels emasculated. Walter believes that nobody listens to his dreams or wants to give him a chance at being a "man".

Walter says that pride is old-time stuff what would Walter consider modern day thinking?

Walter believes that only doing things you can be proud of is old-fashioned. In his eyes, pride has nothing to do with accomplishment, and you do whatever it takes to reach your goal.

Study Guide for A Raisin in the Sun

A Raisin in the Sun study guide contains a biography of Lorraine Hansberry, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About A Raisin in the Sun
• A Raisin in the Sun Summary
• Character List

Essays for A Raisin in the Sun

A Raisin in the Sun essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry.

• The Aspirations of Women in A Raisin in the Sun
• Viewing the World from Different Angles: Generation Gaps in Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun
• Women, Black and Proud
• The Struggle of Finding a Home in African-American Literature
• A Dream Deferred: An Analysis of "A Raisin in the Sun"

Lesson Plan for A Raisin in the Sun

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to A Raisin in the Sun
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• A Raisin in the Sun Bibliography

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Essays on A Raisin in The Sun

If you're wondering why you should write an essay about "A Raisin in the Sun," let me tell you—it's a timeless classic! This play by Lorraine Hansberry touches on crucial themes like dreams, racial inequality, and family dynamics. Writing an essay on this topic allows you to explore these important issues while honing your analytical skills. Plus, it's a fascinating read, and your essay will definitely stand out!

A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics 🌟

Choosing the perfect topic for your essay is crucial. You want something that sparks your interest and engages your readers. Here's how to pick a topic that shines:

✍️A Raisin in the Sun Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essays require you to take a stance and defend it with evidence. Here are 10 thought-provoking topics for your argumentative essay:

• 1. The portrayal of racism and discrimination in the play.
• 2. The significance of Lena's plant as a symbol of hope.
• 3. The role of gender dynamics within the Younger family.
• 4. The impact of poverty on the characters' aspirations.
• 5. The importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.
• 6. The conflict between assimilation and cultural identity.
• 7. The dream of homeownership and its implications.
• 8. The evolution of Walter Lee's character throughout the play.
• 9. The generational clash within the Younger family.
• 10. The symbolism of the deferred dreams in the play.

✍️A Raisin in the Sun Cause and Effect Essay

Cause and effect essays explore the relationships between events and their consequences. Here are 10 topics for your cause and effect essay:

• 1. The causes and effects of the Younger family's financial struggles.
• 2. The impact of racial discrimination on the characters' lives.
• 3. The consequences of Walter Lee's business decisions.
• 4. The cause and effect of Mama's decision to buy a house.
• 5. The influence of poverty on dreams and ambitions.
• 6. The effects of assimilation on identity within the African American community.
• 7. The causes and consequences of Beneatha's pursuit of education.
• 8. The ripple effect of Mr. Lindner's offer to the Younger family.
• 9. The impact of Mama's plant on the family's unity.
• 10. The causes and effects of Walter Lee's personal transformation.

✍️A Raisin in the Sun Opinion Essay

Opinion essays allow you to express your viewpoint on a subject. Here are 10 topics for your opinion essay:

• 1. Your personal interpretation of the American Dream in the play.
• 2. Your opinion on the importance of Lena's role in the family.
• 3. Your perspective on the significance of Beneatha's quest for identity.
• 4. Your thoughts on the theme of generational conflict in "A Raisin in the Sun."
• 5. Your views on the role of hope and dreams in the play.
• 6. Your opinion on Walter Lee's character development and redemption.
• 7. Your take on the symbolism of the deferred dreams throughout the story.
• 8. Your thoughts on the relevance of the play's themes in today's society.
• 9. Your perspective on the importance of family unity in the face of adversity.
• 10. Your view on the choices made by the Younger family and their consequences.

✍️A Raisin in the Sun Informative Essay

Informative essays provide facts and insights to educate your readers. Here are 10 topics for your informative essay:

• 1. The historical context of racial segregation in 1950s America.
• 2. The life and influence of playwright Lorraine Hansberry.
• 3. The symbolism behind the play's title, "A Raisin in the Sun."
• 4. The evolution of African American theater and its impact.
• 5. The significance of housing discrimination in the play.
• 6. The cultural influences on the characters' identities in the story.
• 7. The importance of the Younger family's apartment as a setting.
• 8. The role of dreams in African American literature and history.
• 9. The social and economic challenges faced by African Americans in the 1950s.
• 10. The enduring legacy of "A Raisin in the Sun" in literature and theater.

A Raisin in the Sun Essay Example 📝

A raisin in the sun thesis statement examples.

1. "In 'A Raisin in the Sun,' Lorraine Hansberry explores the power of dreams as a driving force for change, highlighting the importance of hope in the face of adversity."

2. "The play 'A Raisin in the Sun' delves into the complexities of racial identity, illustrating the challenges faced by African Americans in pursuing the American Dream."

3. "Lena Younger's unwavering determination to buy a house serves as a symbol of resilience and empowerment in 'A Raisin in the Sun.'

A Raisin in the Sun Essay Introduction Examples

1. "In the racially segregated landscape of 1950s America, Lorraine Hansberry's 'A Raisin in the Sun' takes us on a journey through the aspirations and struggles of the Younger family."

2. "As we delve into 'A Raisin in the Sun,' we are introduced to the Younger family, whose dreams of a better life and questions of identity form the core of this poignant play."

3. "Welcome to the world of 'A Raisin in the Sun,' where dreams deferred, familial bonds, and the fight against racial injustice converge to create a compelling narrative."

A Raisin in the Sun Conclusion Examples

1. "In conclusion, 'A Raisin in the Sun' reminds us that dreams, no matter how deferred, have the power to inspire change, bridge generational gaps, and illuminate the path to a brighter future."

2. "As we reflect on 'A Raisin in the Sun,' we find a profound message: that the human spirit can overcome even the most daunting obstacles, and hope can bloom in the most unlikely places."

3. "Ultimately, 'A Raisin in the Sun' teaches us that in the face of adversity, unity, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams can transform challenging circumstances into a brighter tomorrow."

The Significance of Setting in a Raisin in The Sun

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George and Asagai Character Analysis

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Pursuit of American Dreams in Literary Works

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Analysis of Dreams of Each Character in a Raisin in The Sun

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March 11, 1959; Lorraine Hansberry

Play; Domestic drama

Walter Younger, Ruth Younger, Beneatha Younger, Travis Younger, Lena Younger, George Murchison, Joseph Asagai, Karl Lindner, Mrs. Johnson, Moving Men.

"A Raisin in the Sun" is a play written by Lorraine Hansberry and is based on her own experiences and observations of African American life in Chicago during the 1950s. The title of the play is derived from the poem "Harlem" by Langston Hughes, which asks what happens to a dream deferred. Hansberry's play explores the dreams, struggles, and aspirations of the Younger family, an African American family living in a small and cramped apartment on Chicago's South Side. The play is inspired by Hansberry's own family's fight against racial segregation and discrimination. It delves into themes such as racial identity, social inequality, the pursuit of dreams, and the generational divide within the African American community. Through the characters of the Younger family, Hansberry presents the challenges they face in pursuing their dreams and the sacrifices they must make in the face of racial prejudice and limited opportunities.

The play centers around the struggles and aspirations of the family members as they grapple with poverty, racial discrimination, and their dreams for a better life. The matriarch of the family, Lena Younger, receives a life insurance check following the death of her husband. The family members have different ideas on how to use the money. Lena dreams of buying a house and creating a better future for her family, while her son Walter dreams of investing in a business opportunity. The tension escalates as the family faces conflicts over their differing ambitions and values. The play explores themes of identity, family dynamics, the impact of racism, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through the characters' interactions and struggles, the play delves into the complexities of race, socioeconomic disparities, and the challenges faced by African Americans in their pursuit of upward mobility. In the end, the Younger family navigates their dreams, aspirations, and the obstacles that come their way, ultimately finding strength and unity as they strive for a brighter future.

"A Raisin in the Sun" is set in the mid-1950s in a small apartment on the South Side of Chicago. The cramped living space serves as a physical representation of the Younger family's limited financial means and their struggle to make ends meet. The apartment, located in a run-down tenement building, becomes a focal point for the family's hopes, dreams, and conflicts. The setting reflects the larger socio-economic and racial context of the time. The South Side of Chicago was predominantly inhabited by African American communities, who often faced discrimination, limited opportunities, and systemic racism. The neighborhood's dilapidated buildings and overcrowded living conditions further underscore the challenges and limitations faced by the Younger family. As the story unfolds, the Younger family's apartment becomes a microcosm of their aspirations and the tensions that arise as they confront societal and personal obstacles. The setting of the play not only provides a backdrop for the characters' interactions but also serves as a metaphor for their struggle against racial and economic inequalities, and their quest for a better life.

One of the central themes is the pursuit of dreams and aspirations. The play delves into the dreams of the Younger family members, each with their own desires for a better future. Whether it is Walter's dream of entrepreneurship, Beneatha's ambition to become a doctor, or Mama's hope for a comfortable home, the play delves into the power of dreams and the obstacles that can hinder their realization. Another significant theme is racial discrimination and its impact on the characters' lives. The play highlights the systemic racism prevalent during the 1950s, with the Younger family facing numerous challenges and prejudices based on their race. The theme of racial identity is also explored through Beneatha's search for her African heritage and her struggle to reconcile her African roots with her American upbringing. Family dynamics and the importance of unity are also prominent themes in the play. The Younger family experiences conflicts and tensions as they navigate their individual dreams and aspirations. However, they ultimately learn the value of sticking together and supporting each other in the face of adversity.

1. Symbolism: Lorraine Hansberry uses symbolism to add depth and layers to the narrative. For example, the plant that Mama cares for throughout the play symbolizes the family's dreams and aspirations. The plant represents hope and the need for nurturing and growth. 2. Foreshadowing: The play utilizes foreshadowing to hint at future events and create suspense. An example of foreshadowing is when Walter's friend, Willy, disappears with the money he entrusted to him, foreshadowing the challenges and setbacks the family will face on their journey to achieve their dreams. 3. Imagery: Hansberry skillfully employs vivid imagery to evoke powerful emotions and create a visual experience for the readers or audience. For instance, the description of the cramped apartment and its worn-out furnishings conveys the Younger family's economic struggles and the oppressive living conditions they endure. 4. Metaphors: Metaphors are used to convey abstract concepts or ideas in a more tangible way. One notable metaphor in the play is the reference to Walter's dream as a "raisin in the sun." This metaphor captures the idea that dreams, if deferred or neglected, can wither and lose their potential.

Film Adaptation (1961): The play was adapted into a film in 1961, featuring the original Broadway cast. This film, directed by Daniel Petrie, brought the story to the big screen, allowing a wider audience to experience the powerful performances and themes of the play. Television Adaptation (2008): In 2008, a television adaptation of "A Raisin in the Sun" was produced. This adaptation, starring Sean Combs, Phylicia Rashad, and Audra McDonald, aired on ABC and received critical acclaim for its faithful portrayal of the play's themes of racial inequality and the pursuit of dreams. Revivals and Stage Productions: "A Raisin in the Sun" continues to be staged in theaters around the world. Notable revivals include the 2014 Broadway production starring Denzel Washington and the 2019 London production featuring a predominantly black British cast. These productions keep the play alive and relevant, allowing new generations to engage with its timeless themes and messages.

Here are some ways in which the play has made an impact: 1. Shifting African-American Narratives: Lorraine Hansberry's play challenged prevailing stereotypes and offered a nuanced portrayal of African-American life. It paved the way for more diverse and authentic representation of black experiences in literature and theater, inspiring subsequent generations of writers to explore themes of race, identity, and social justice. 2. Examining the American Dream: "A Raisin in the Sun" explores the complexities of the American Dream through the experiences of the Younger family. It raises questions about the pursuit of happiness, racial equality, and the limitations faced by marginalized communities. The play has sparked discussions and critical analysis of the American Dream and its implications for different social groups. 3. Impact on Civil Rights Movement: The play was written and first performed during the height of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. It offered a powerful critique of racial discrimination and socioeconomic inequality, resonating with the struggles of the time. "A Raisin in the Sun" provided a platform for African-American voices and contributed to the larger movement for social justice and equal rights.

1. "A Raisin in the Sun" made history as the first play written by an African-American woman (Lorraine Hansberry) to be produced on Broadway. It premiered on March 11, 1959, at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre and ran for 530 performances, receiving critical acclaim and introducing a new wave of African-American voices in American theater. 2. The original Broadway production of "A Raisin in the Sun" garnered four Tony Award nominations in 1960, including Best Play. Although it didn't win in the Best Play category, it earned the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for Ruby Dee's powerful performance as Ruth Younger, further highlighting the play's impact and the exceptional talent involved in its production. 3. "A Raisin in the Sun" has been adapted for film and television multiple times. Notably, the 1961 film adaptation featured the original Broadway cast, including Sidney Poitier and Ruby Dee. In 2008, a made-for-television adaptation starred Sean Combs, Phylicia Rashad, and Audra McDonald.

A Raisin in the Sun holds immense importance as a subject for academic essays due to its profound exploration of the African-American experience and the timeless themes it tackles. The play delves into issues of racial identity, discrimination, the pursuit of dreams, and the complexities of family dynamics. By examining these themes, students can gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by African-Americans during the mid-20th century and the socio-political climate of the time. Furthermore, A Raisin in the Sun remains relevant today, making it a rich source for critical analysis and discussion. It prompts readers to reflect on themes of self-identity, the importance of dreams, generational conflicts, and the impact of systemic racism, all of which continue to resonate in contemporary society. Moreover, the play's historical significance as a groundbreaking work of African-American literature and theater further solidifies its importance for academic study. A Raisin in the Sun broke barriers and paved the way for subsequent generations of African-American playwrights and artists, making it a vital piece to explore in the context of cultural and literary history.

"There is always something left to love. And if you ain’t learned that, you ain’t learned nothing." "…most of the trouble exists because people just don’t sit down and talk to each other…That we don’t try hard enough in this world to understand the other fellow’s problem. The other guy’s point of view." "Big Walter used to say, he’d get right wet in the eyes sometimes, lean his head back with the water standing in his eyes and say, ‘Seem like God didn’t see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams - but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worth while." "That is just what is wrong with the colored woman in this world … Don’t understand about building their men up and making ‘em feel like they somebody. Like they can do something." "I guess that’s how come that man finally worked hisself to death like he done. Like he was fighting his own war with this here world that took his baby from him."

1. Hansberry, L. (2014). A Raisin in the Sun. In African American Scenebook (pp. 57-62). Routledge. (https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781315053653-12/raisin-sun-lorraine-hansberry) 2. Matthews, K. L. (2008). The Politics of “Home” in Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun. Modern Drama, 51(4), 556-578. (https://moderndrama.utpjournals.press/doi/abs/10.3138/md.51.4.556) 3. Wilkerson, M. B. (1986). " A Raisin in the Sun": Anniversary of an American Classic. Theatre Journal, 38(4), 441-452. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/3208286) 4. Bernstein, R. (1999). Inventing a fishbowl: white supremacy and the critical reception of Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun. Modern Drama, 42(1), 16-27. (https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/50/article/499969/summary) 5. Rose, T. (2014). Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun and the “Illegible” Politics of (Inter) personal Justice. Kalfou, 1(1). (https://tupjournals.temple.edu/index.php/kalfou/article/view/9) 6. Mafe, D. A. (2006). Black women on Broadway: the duality of Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun and Ntozake Shange's for colored girls. American Drama, 15(2), 30. (https://www.proquest.com/docview/195861574?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true) 7. Chappell, M. F., & Thompson, D. R. (2000). A Raisin in the Sun: Fostering cultural connections with a classic movie. Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School, 6(4), 222-235. (https://pubs.nctm.org/view/journals/mtms/6/4/article-p222.xml) 8. Haleem, H. A. (2021). From the" Other" to Matriarch: The Transcending Role of Black Women in Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun. Journal of Women Empowerment and Studies (JWES) ISSN: 2799-1253, 1(01), 32-39. (http://journal.hmjournals.com/index.php/JWES/article/view/1281)

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104 A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics & Examples

Below, see A Raisin in the Sun essay topics collected by our team . Use these original titles to examine the themes of poverty and the American dream.

🏆 Best A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics & Examples

📌 simple & easy essay topics for a raisin in the sun, 🔖 most interesting a raisin in the sun essay prompt, ❓ a raisin in the sun essay questions.

• Walter Lee Younger: Character Analysis Essay This promise is immature; Walter knows very well that getting the money to invest in his business remains a point of contention, yet he promises Willy that he would take the money.
• Play Review: “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry The family is living in a shabby South Chicago apartment and each of the family’s members is on the pursuit of his/her dream.
• Compare and Contrast Lena Younger and Walter Lee Younger She seems more concerned about the status of living conditions and the ability to enjoy the freedom as opposed to being in possession of money.
• Comparing A Raisin in the Sun by L. Hansberry and Fences by A. Wilson As the story opens, each person in the family is thinking of what to do with the money they are about to get from an insurance firm as compensation of Mr.
• Literature Comparison: A Raisin in the Sun and A Dream Deferred Despite the seeming difference in genre, stylistic choices, characters and settings, the novel Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry and Langston Hughes’ poem A Dream Deferred have a lot in common; in fact, one […]
• Racial Discrimination in “A Raisin in the Sun” Racial discrimination is the main theme of the book, strongly reflecting the situation that prevailed during the 1950s in the United States, a time when the story’s Younger family lived in Chicago’s South Side ghetto.
• “Raisin in the Sun” and “Harlem” Hansberry and Hughes introduce the same idea of a dream compared to a raisin dried up in the sun, but explain it in different ways in order to show how the interpretation of a thought […]
• Deferred Dreams in Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” In the play A Raisin in the Sun, the playwriter uses art to fictionalize encounters of a delayed dream by a family; it is a supposition of the poem by Hughes.
• Appearance in “Othello” and “A Raisin in the Sun” The paper under analysis is based on the comparison of Othello by Shakespeare and A Raising in the Sun by Hansberry through the manifesting of the theme of the racial segregation and the nature of […]
• Generations in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Hansberry For instance, in Lorraine Hansberry’s play Raisin in the Sun, the concept is shown via the manifestation of generational parity and its influence on the Youngers family’s characters.
• Beneatha’s Dream Analysis From “A Raisin in the Sun” However, as levelheaded as she is, she still has a dream of her own. Beneatha’s dream of becoming a doctor defines the character’s main decisions, making her more vulnerable and relatable.
• The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams and A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry Drama In the play A Raising in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, each member of the Younger family has his/her own idea on how to spend $10,000 that the family received from the insurance cover of […]
• “The Day It Happened” by Rosario Morales and “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry The two characters’ attitude towards their background is also different as Ramon is proud of being Hispanic and he speaks Spanish with his wife when he pleads her to stay, “Si te vas me mato.
• A Raisin in the Sun: The Play by Lorraine Hansberry Climax in the play is realized when Walter is made to understand by Bobo that Willy, the man entrusted with the money to start a liquor business has run away with the money, this thus […]
• Realism in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Hansberry “A Raisin in the Sun” is a play in three acts whose action unfolds sometime between the end of World War II and the 1950s.
• Hero or Zero: Analysis of Walter in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Hansberry When his mother gets insurance for ten thousand dollars after his father’s death, he decides to take a risk and invest a part of the money in a liquor store.
• Race Barriers to Dreams. “A Raisin in the Sun” by Hansberry Focusing on the life of a Black American family, the author discusses the problems of race-based prejudice, segregation, historical memory, and the role of generational gaps in racial minorities’ attitudes to injustice.
• “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorrain Hansberry Review That little plant is the symbol of hope for a family determined to escape the squalor and violence of the ghetto.
• “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry Literature Analysis The book, A Raisin in the Sun, clearly Lorraine Hansberry’s masterpiece, presents a 1950s life of a family- the Youngers; the family is caught up with individualism as they make decisions regarding money acquired from […]
• “The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark” and “A Raisin in the Sun” In this regard, the decisions of Hamlet, Claudius, Walter, and Lena illustrate the character’s commitment to family despite differences of opinion and disagreements.
• The Play “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry As a result, the educated and intelligent Beneatha chooses the sincere Asagai, with whom she is not shy about leaving her hair curled and dancing to African music. Thus, Beneatha is a strong heroine who […]
• Walter Lee Younger in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Hansberry The story that best exemplifies the traits of the character at the beginning of the play is the opportunity to sell the house.
• Hanisberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” and Faulkner’s “A Rose for Emily” The characters in A Raising in the Sun are real in the sense that the reader can have a feel of a mother’s love for her family and for her children to succeed in life.
• My Life and “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry Racial segregation is a core factor which intended many famous American writers, playwrights, social figures in the first half of the twentieth century to show the real state of things in the “democratic and free” […]
• Racial Segregation in Two Books “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansbury and “The Child by Tiger” by Thomas Wolfe In this paper, we will discuss the elements of ‘racism’ portrayed in the two books, “A Raisin in the Sun”, written by Lorraine Hansbury, and “The Child by Tiger”, by Thomas Wolfe.
• A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry: Play Analysis It does well to portray the social features of strong segregation and racial discrimination that prevailed during the 1950s in the United States, a time when the story’s younger family lived in Chicago’s South Side […]
• “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry: Major Full-Length Play Lena expresses misgivings about Walter’s plan to invest in the liquor business, and he, in turn, accuses his mother of destroying his dream of becoming a successful businessman and providing for his family. Hansberry wants […]
• A Raisin in the Sun by Jane G. A. Racial discrimination is the main theme of the book, strongly reflecting the situation that prevailed during the 1950s in the United States, a time when the story’s Younger family lived in Chicago’s South Side ghetto.
• “A Raisin in the Sun” Play by Lorraine Hansberry This paper is discussing the character of the relationship between mama and her son Walter together with the problems which are brought up in the interaction of these two characters in the play.
• The Novel “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry Taking a closer look at the way the Youngers family lives, one can see the writer’s concern for the Black American society and the relationships within the Afro-Americans as well as the relations between the […]
• Feminism and Roles in “A Raisin in the Sun” Play These are such questions as: “What does Beneatha’s conduct reveal about her intentions?”, “How does the character treat female’s role in society?”, “How does Beneatha regard poor people?”, “How does the heroine explain her choice […]
• ‘The Glass Menagerie’ and ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ Drama Analysis The two plays ‘The Glass Menagerie’ and ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ brings out the features of American society. On the other hand, the play ‘The Glass Menagerie’ portrays the American men who ran away […]
• A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry The check is on life insurance and is to be given to Lena due to the death of her husband. Wilter asks for the insurance money in order for him to work with it and […]
• Thematic Analysis of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” Mama, the head of the family plans to buy a house and fulfill her lifetime dream which she shared with her late husband. Walter’s understanding of this American dream marks the center of the conflict […]
• The Constant Struggle of the African American Family in a White Man’s World in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Parent-Child Conflict in Lorraine Hansberry’s Play “A Raisin in the Sun”
• An Analysis of Hidden Tensions in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• Materialism and Manhood in Lorraine Hansberry’s Play “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Effects of Racial Segregation in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• Resolving Conflicts in Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”
• “A Raisin in the Sun” and African-American Stereotypes
• An Analysis of Family Values and Morals in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• “A Raisin in the Sun”: African-American Personal and Collective Identity
• The Idea of Black Feminism in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• The Circumscribed and Tragic Hero: Lena’s Role in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Male and Female Relationships in Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Important Life Lessons in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• The Pursuit of Happiness in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Suffering of African-Americans in “The Colored Museum” and “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Ordinary View of the Mid-Twentieth Century African-American Male in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Concepts of Love and Wealth in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• An Analysis of Shattered Dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• A Young Family’s Predicaments in Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Money and Its Effects on People’s Lives in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• Fighting Charges of Assimilation in Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Struggles of the Racial Minority Groups in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• Negative Effects of the American Dream in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Ways in Which the Setting of “A Raisin in the Sun” Has a Profound Effect Upon Two of the Characters
• Characters Representing Major Ideas and Themes in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Changing Roles of Women in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• An Analysis of the Themes in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• Walter’s Women and His Successes in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Use of Imagery in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• The Depiction of Manhood in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Motherhood in “The Glass Menagerie” and “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Problems That the Older Generation Has in Dealing With the Younger Generation in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• The Effects of Dreams and Desires in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• How Family Affects Oneself in “The Bean Trees” and “A Raisin in the Sun”
• “Of Mice and Men” and “A Raisin in the Sun”: The American Dream
• Prejudice and Racism: Home Ownership in “A Raisin in the Sun” and in America
• Literary Values in Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Story of a Black Family Struggling to Survive in Chicago in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• Difficulities in “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry
• A Point of No Return After Which the Life of a Person Can Never Be the Same in “A Raisin in the Sun”
• In What Ways Is Hansberry Challenging Stereotypes of African Americans in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Is the Conflict in the Story “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• How Is the Theme of Assimilation Treated in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Is Walter Unhappy in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does Eat Your Eggs Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Is the Play Called “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• How Is Beneatha Different From Other Younger Family Members in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Is the Main Theme of “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does Africa Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does the New House Signify to Each of the Youngers in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• How Is Money a Symbol in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• How Does Walter Change From the Beginning of “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does Big Walter Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Who Steals the Money in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does the Liquor Store Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does “A Raisin in the Sun” Say About Identity?
• What Does the Green Hat Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Do You Think Mama Changes Her Mind and Gives Walter the Insurance Money in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Is the Significance of Mama’s Plant in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Are Main Symbols in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Did Walter Open a Liquor Store in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does the Insurance Money Represent to Mama in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does the Music Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does the Apartment Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Is Mama’s Little Plant So Important to Her in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Does Ruth Symbolize in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Why Did Mama Give Walter the Money in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Is the Importance of Having Mama Return to the Empty Apartment to Grab Her Plant in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• What Are the Greatest Strains on Walter and Ruth’s Marriage in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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IvyPanda . 2024. "104 A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics & Examples." February 22, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/a-raisin-in-the-sun-essay-examples/.

1. IvyPanda . "104 A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics & Examples." February 22, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/a-raisin-in-the-sun-essay-examples/.

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IvyPanda . "104 A Raisin in the Sun Essay Topics & Examples." February 22, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/a-raisin-in-the-sun-essay-examples/.

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A Raisin in the Sun

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A Raisin in the Sun examines the effects of racial prejudice on the fulfillment of an African-American family’s dreams. The play centers on the Youngers, a working-class family that lives in Chicago’s South Side during the mid-twentieth century. Shortly before the play begins, the head of the Younger family, Big Walter , dies, leaving the family to inherit a $10,000 life insurance payment . The family eagerly awaits the arrival of the insurance check, which has the potential to make the family’s long deferred dreams into reality. However, the members of the Younger family have conflicting ideas—conflicting dreams—regarding the best use for the money, which causes tension.

At the beginning of the play Mama , Big Walter’s widow, expresses uncertainty regarding the best use for the money. Mama tells her daughter-in-law, Ruth , that she and her late husband shared the dream of owning a house, but that poverty and racism prevented them from fulfilling this dream during Big Walter’s lifetime. Mama’s daughter, Beneatha , aspires to attend medical school and become a doctor, a considerable challenge for an African-American woman at that time. Beneatha’s older brother, Walter Lee , belittles his sister’s dream, instead suggesting that she simply get married. Walter wants to use the insurance payment as an investment in a liquor store, an idea that Mama and his wife Ruth both dislike. Ruth, worried about her troubled marriage and the family’s cramped living situation, shares Mama’s hope for a house, although she is willing to support her husband’s dream because, as she tells Mama, “He needs this chance.” Walter finds his job as a white man’s chauffeur demeaning and he sees the liquor store investment as the only path towards a better future.

On the same day that the check arrives, Ruth finds out that she is pregnant, which makes her question whether the family can afford to raise another child. Knowing that Ruth is considering an abortion, Mama begs Walter to convince his wife to keep the baby. Walter is unable to say anything and leaves the apartment. As Mama watches her family “falling apart,” she makes the decision to place a down payment on a home in the white neighborhood of Clybourne Park, hoping that her choice to “do something bigger” will bring the family together.

Mama’s decision to purchase a house only sends Walter deeper into despair as he sees the opportunity to fulfill his dream disappear. On the other hand, the new house fills Ruth with joy and hope for her family, helping her to imagine the possibility of a happy future for her unborn child. Several weeks later, Walter continues to grow more despondent and skips work three days in a row. As Mama realizes that “I been doing to you what the rest of the world been doing to you,” she decides to transfer control of the household and the rest of the insurance money to Walter, asking only that he set aside a portion for Beneatha’s schooling. Mama’s decision reinvigorates Walter.

A week later, the family is happily preparing for its move when Karl Lindner arrives and tells them of Clybourne Park’s offer to buy their new home as a way to dissuade the family from moving to the neighborhood. The family confidently refuses the offer. Moments later, Walter’s friend Bobo enters and tells Walter that Willy Harris has disappeared with the liquor store investment. Without heeding Mama’s advice, Walter had invested the entirety of the insurance money in the liquor store, and the loss leaves the family on the brink of financial ruin.

An hour later, the Nigerian student Joseph Asagai visits Beneatha and finds her distraught over the lost money. Asagai asks Beneatha to marry him and “come home” to Africa with him, a sudden proposal that Beneatha says she will need to consider. Soon after, Walter informs the family that he will accept Lindner’s offer, which greatly disappoints them. However, as Walter and his son, Travis , face Lindner, Walter reclaims his dignity and refuses Lindner’s offer. Excited but well aware of the dangers that await them, the Youngers leave their apartment and head to their new home.

Dante’s Inferno: a Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife

This essay about Dante’s Inferno explores the nine levels of Hell as depicted in his renowned work. It delves into the vivid descriptions of sin and punishment, illustrating how each level represents different moral transgressions and their consequences. From the opportunists in the vestibule to the traitors encased in ice, Dante’s portrayal offers profound insights into human nature and the afterlife. Through vivid imagery and allegorical storytelling, the essay highlights the enduring relevance of Dante’s Inferno as a literary masterpiece that prompts reflection on the complexities of morality and the consequences of our actions.

How it works

Dante Alighieri’s “Inferno” serves as a vivid portrayal of the levels of Hell, drawing upon a rich tapestry of religious, political, and cultural influences to create a compelling narrative of sin, punishment, and redemption. This literary masterpiece takes readers on a journey through nine concentric circles of Hell, each representing a different category of sin and its corresponding punishment. From the vestibule of the opportunists to the frozen depths of Cocytus, Dante’s depiction of Hell offers profound insights into human nature and the consequences of moral transgression.

At the entrance to Hell stands the vestibule, a liminal space inhabited by the opportunists, those who lived without committing to either good or evil. Here, souls chase after a blank banner, symbolizing their futile pursuit of self-interest without regard for higher principles. This level serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of moral indifference, condemning those who refuse to take a stand in life to eternal obscurity in death.

Descending further into the depths of Hell, Dante encounters the circles devoted to specific sins, each with its own unique form of punishment. In the circle of lust, for example, souls are buffeted about by fierce winds, symbolizing the restless nature of their desires in life. Meanwhile, in the circle of gluttony, the condemned are subjected to a ceaseless rain of filth and excrement, reflecting the degradation of their indulgence in bodily pleasures. As Dante descends deeper into Hell, the severity of the punishments increases, mirroring the gravity of the sins they represent.

One of the most chilling levels of Hell is the ninth circle, reserved for traitors and betrayers. Here, souls are encased in a frozen lake, their bodies contorted in agony as they suffer the ultimate punishment for their treachery. Among the inhabitants of this circle are historical figures such as Brutus and Cassius, whose betrayal of Julius Caesar earned them a place among the damned for eternity. Through his depiction of this icy wasteland, Dante captures the profound sense of isolation and despair experienced by those who betray the bonds of trust and loyalty.

In conclusion, Dante’s Inferno offers a haunting vision of the afterlife, with its vivid depiction of the levels of Hell serving as a powerful allegory for the consequences of sin. From the opportunists at the entrance to the traitors in the frozen depths, each level of Hell represents a different aspect of human folly and moral failing. Through his exploration of these themes, Dante invites readers to reflect on their own actions and consider the implications of their choices in life. Ultimately, Dante’s Inferno serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring power of literature to illuminate the darkest recesses of the human soul.

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Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife. (2024, May 12). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/

"Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife." PapersOwl.com , 12 May 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/ [Accessed: 13 May. 2024]

"Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife." PapersOwl.com, May 12, 2024. Accessed May 13, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/

"Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife," PapersOwl.com , 12-May-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/. [Accessed: 13-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Dante's Inferno: A Descent into the Depths of the Afterlife . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/dantes-inferno-a-descent-into-the-depths-of-the-afterlife/ [Accessed: 13-May-2024]

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