A Raisin in the Sun

Definition

A Raisin in the Sun is a play written by Lorraine Hansberry that premiered in 1959. It tells the story of a struggling African American family living in Chicago and their dreams for a better life, symbolizing the broader aspirations and frustrations of black Americans during that era. The play explores themes of identity, racism, and the pursuit of dreams while using powerful symbols to convey its messages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The title 'A Raisin in the Sun' comes from Langston Hughes' poem 'Harlem,' which questions what happens to a dream deferred, setting the tone for the play's exploration of dreams.
2. The character of Walter Lee Younger embodies the struggle for identity and economic mobility, representing many African American men facing systemic barriers.
3. Beneatha's character challenges traditional gender roles and explores her African heritage, showcasing themes of feminism and cultural identity.
4. The Younger family's decision to invest in a house symbolizes their hope for a better future and highlights issues of race and housing discrimination.
5. The play's climax revolves around Walter's choice between accepting money from a white businessman or standing up for his family's dignity, emphasizing themes of pride and self-respect.

Review Questions

• How does Lorraine Hansberry use symbolism in A Raisin in the Sun to convey deeper themes about identity and aspirations?
  • In A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry employs symbolism to reflect the characters' aspirations and struggles. For instance, the house that the Younger family hopes to purchase symbolizes not just a physical space but their dreams for a better life and social mobility. Similarly, Beneatha's natural hair represents her journey toward embracing her African identity. Through these symbols, Hansberry illustrates how personal identity is intertwined with larger societal issues.
• Discuss how the theme of dreams is portrayed through Walter Lee Younger's character arc in A Raisin in the Sun.
  • Walter Lee Younger's character arc illustrates the complexities of dreams and aspirations within the context of systemic racism and economic hardship. Initially, Walter's dream revolves around financial success through investing in a liquor store. However, as he faces setbacks and realizes the impact of his choices on his family's dignity, his understanding of what constitutes a 'dream' evolves. By the end of the play, Walter learns to prioritize family values and self-respect over monetary gain, highlighting a profound shift in his aspirations.
• Evaluate how A Raisin in the Sun reflects broader societal issues faced by African Americans during the 1950s and how these issues resonate today.
  • A Raisin in the Sun serves as a critical reflection of societal issues such as racism, economic disparity, and housing discrimination faced by African Americans during the 1950s. The struggles of the Younger family resonate with contemporary audiences as similar challenges persist today, including systemic inequality and limited access to resources for marginalized communities. The play encourages reflection on ongoing racial issues while advocating for resilience and hope, making it a timeless work that continues to inspire dialogue about race and social justice.

Related terms

Dream Deferred: A concept from the poem 'Harlem' by Langston Hughes, reflecting on the consequences of unfulfilled dreams, which is a central theme in A Raisin in the Sun.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities; in the play, symbols like the house and Beneatha's hair reflect personal and cultural identity.

Social Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and societal issues accurately; A Raisin in the Sun addresses real challenges faced by African Americans in mid-20th century America.