Themes: Dreams

Dreams are a driving force behind the actions of almost every character in A Raisin in the Sun. Walter wants to improve the material wealth of his family by starting a business, simultaneously elevating himself out of the service industry and into the realm of ownership. Beneatha wants to become a doctor, representing her aspiration to become a respected and independent professional as well as her desire to “fix up the sick” in her community....

Themes: Race and Racism

Race and its socioeconomic implications heavily influence how the Youngers navigate life in Chicago in the mid-twentieth century. As a Black family, the Youngers have all faced challenges linked to their race. Lena and her deceased husband, Walter Sr., were descended from “slaves and sharecroppers,” and they spent their lives performing physical labor. The $10,000 insurance check issued after Walter Sr.’s passing is described as being “made out...

Themes: The Different Types of Wealth

Money is a continuous source of debate between the characters in the play, each of whom seems to have a different vision of what it means to be truly wealthy. Walter begins the play valuing money for its ability to elevate him out of his working-class conditions. He resents his job as a chauffeur and aspires to own his own business in order to become a wealthy and respected man. However, Ruth, Lena, and Beneatha all have different visions of...

Themes: Dignity and Self-Worth

One of the central lessons of the play is the value of dignity. Walter is deeply unhappy in his job as a chauffeur, and he resents the “stars gleaming” just out of his reach. He has externalized his sense of self-worth, staking his hopes for the future on becoming a business owner and elevating himself out of the service class. However, after he loses all of the money Lena gives him from the insurance check, he is forced to reevaluate his life...

Themes: Family

The theme of family is central to A Raisin in the Sun, illustrating the struggles and aspirations of the Younger family as they navigate racial and economic challenges. The play highlights the importance of family unity and the conflicts that arise from differing dreams and expectations. Through the dynamics of the Younger family, Hansberry explores the complexities of familial relationships and the sacrifices made for the sake of family.

Ruth's...