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. Lena, meanwhile, aspires to support her family in a different way: homeownership. Lena is a source of strength and support within her family, and she views owning a home in a good neighborhood as a way to invest in the future stability and success of her loved ones. While their individual dreams take different shapes, each of the Youngers seems to want what is best for their family, and they each work to become providers in different ways.
However, for all that dreams provide a source of aspiration, they can also be the cause of conflict and disappointment. The so-called American dream is based on the idea that anyone willing to work hard has the opportunity to find success and prosperity in the United States. However, the Youngers are often held back from achieving their dreams by factors outside of their control—most notably their race, although gender and social class also present barriers. Ultimately, everyone has dreams that inspire them, but racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression unfairly limit the opportunities available to marginalized people.
Expert Q&A
What does the quote from A Raisin in the Sun mean?
“We have decided to move into our house because my father—my father—he earned it for us brick by brick. We don’t want to make no trouble for nobody or fight no causes, and we will try to be good neighbors. And that’s all we got to say about that. We don’t want your money.”
The quote from A Raison in the Sun represents the culmination of Walter Younger and his family’s struggle for dignity and self-respect in a white-dominated society. Each member of the family aspires to a better life but share differing visions. Lena’s dream of moving into a better neighborhood conflicts with the determination of a white homeowners’ association to prevent the family from moving in. Walter defends the family’s decision, having earned the right to live in peace.
In A Raisin in the Sun, what does the absence of light in the Youngers' apartment signify and why does Ruth hope for light in the new house?
The absence of light in the Youngers' apartment symbolizes their bleak future and lack of hope. It reflects their dissatisfaction with their cramped, run-down living conditions and their seemingly unattainable dreams. Ruth hopes for light in the new house as it represents hope, prosperity, and a brighter future. The new home signifies a fresh start and the possibility of a more joyful and welcoming life for her family.
What challenges do Walter and Beneatha face when pursuing their goals in A Raisin in the Sun?
Walter and Beneatha both struggle to overcome poverty and racial prejudice in order to achieve their goals in A Raisin in the Sun. They are also faced with the challenge of pursuing their dreams without a solid support system and lack a practical plan to attain their goals.
Why did Lorraine Hansberry choose Hughes's "Harlem" as the epigraph for A Raisin in the Sun? Which "dream" does the play seem to endorse?
Langston Hughes's poem "Harlem" poses a question: "What happens to a dream deferred?"
Hansberry chose the question "What happens to a dream deferred?" as the epigraph to A Raisin in the Sun because her work centers on the deferred dreams of the members of the Younger family, who have faced the frustrations brought on by racism and poverty. Mama's dream of a suburban home, Walter's dream of wealth, and Beneatha's dream of becoming a doctor all conflict. The play endorses Mama's dream of homeownership and leaves open-ended the answer to Hughes's question.
Does "A Raisin in the Sun" answer Langston Hughes's question, "What happens to a dream deferred?"
According to Hansberry, what are the consequences of a dream fulfilled, deferred, or living without dreams?
According to Hansberry, the consequences of a dream fulfilled are that it yields a sense of achievement, renewal and strength. Seeing Mama achieve her dream of owning a house gives others hope that they can realize their own dreams. If the dream is deferred for too long, the dreamer ultimately loses hope and stops dreaming. When this happens, the person is liable to become bitter and despondent, as Walter did.
In A Raisin in the Sun, does Mama Younger's house dream fulfill each family member's dream?
Mama Younger's dream of owning a house primarily fulfills her own desire for a stable home, symbolizing growth and freedom. For Beneatha, it provides a foundation to explore her identity, offering stability and space. Ruth sees it as a means to nurture her family in a healthier environment. Walter's dream is not immediately fulfilled by the house; he must mature to appreciate its potential as a stepping stone towards independence and further ambitions.
What is the significance of the expected money in A Raisin in the Sun for the family's past, present, and future?
The expected money in "A Raisin in the Sun" symbolizes the family's aspirations and struggles. Tied to Big Walter's life insurance, it reflects their past hardships and values. In the present, it represents hope for change, sparking conflict over its use—whether for Beneatha's education, Walter's business dreams, or Mama's desire for a home. Ultimately, the money symbolizes the power of choice, emphasizing the family's resilience and future potential beyond financial concerns.
What's a similarity between A Raisin in the Sun and the ''I Have a Dream'' speech?
A key similarity between "A Raisin in the Sun" and the "I Have a Dream" speech is their shared theme of challenging social marginalization. Both works emphasize the empowerment of people of color to define their own reality despite societal constraints. Walter Younger's rejection of Lindner's offer parallels Dr. King's vision of racial equality, as both advocate for living a life based on ideals of justice and equality rather than societal limitations.
Can the ending of Lorraine Hansberry's play be seen as happy, or promising hope or greater strength for the Youngers as a family?
Lorraine Hansberry retorted: "I invite him to come live in one of the communities where the Youngers are going!"
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