Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful play that explores themes of race, class, and the American Dream. Set in Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s, the play follows the Younger family as they struggle to overcome poverty and discrimination. Through her use of vivid characters, dialogue, and symbolism, Hansberry offers a poignant critique of the American society and its systemic injustices. In this literary analysis, we will unpack the play’s key themes and motifs, and examine how Hansberry’s masterful storytelling sheds light on the complexities of the human experience.
Historical Context
The historical context of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is crucial to understanding the themes and characters in the play. Set in the 1950s, the play takes place during a time of great social and political change in America. The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, and African Americans were fighting for their rights and equality. The play reflects the struggles and aspirations of African Americans during this time, as they faced discrimination, poverty, and limited opportunities. Hansberry herself was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, and her experiences and activism are reflected in the play. A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful portrayal of the African American experience in the 1950s, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
Plot Summary
The play, A Raisin in the Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry, is a story about the Younger family, an African American family living in Chicago in the 1950s. The family is struggling financially and living in a small apartment. The matriarch of the family, Lena, receives a life insurance check after her husband’s death and wants to use the money to buy a house. However, her son Walter wants to use the money to invest in a liquor store with his friends. The family also faces racism and discrimination as they try to improve their lives. The play explores themes of family, dreams, and the African American experience in America.
Main Characters
The main characters in Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun are the members of the Younger family: Lena (Mama), Walter Lee, Beneatha, Ruth, and Travis. Each character has their own unique personality and struggles, but they all share a common goal of wanting to improve their lives and achieve the American Dream. Mama is the matriarch of the family and is determined to use the insurance money from her husband’s death to buy a house for her family. Walter Lee, Mama’s son, dreams of using the money to invest in a liquor store and become wealthy. Beneatha, Walter Lee’s sister, is a college student who is exploring her African heritage and trying to find her own identity. Ruth, Walter Lee’s wife, is pregnant and struggling to keep the family together. Travis, Walter Lee and Ruth’s son, is a young boy who is caught in the middle of his family’s struggles. The interactions and conflicts between these characters drive the plot of the play and highlight the themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Symbolism and Themes
Throughout A Raisin in the Sun, Hansberry employs various symbols and themes to convey the struggles and aspirations of the Younger family. One of the most prominent symbols is the plant that Mama keeps in the apartment. The plant represents Mama’s hope for a better future and her determination to nurture and protect her family. As the plant struggles to survive in the cramped and dark apartment, Mama’s determination to move to a better home becomes even stronger.
Another important symbol is the check that the family receives from the insurance company. The check represents the promise of a better life, but it also brings out the conflicts and tensions within the family. Walter sees the money as a way to fulfill his dream of owning a business, while Mama wants to use it to buy a house in a better neighborhood. Beneatha, on the other hand, sees the money as a way to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.
The themes of the play are also closely tied to the symbols. One of the main themes is the importance of family and community. Despite their differences and conflicts, the Younger family members are united by their love and support for each other. Another theme is the struggle for dignity and respect in a society that is marked by racism and discrimination. The play shows how the Younger family members face various forms of prejudice and how they strive to overcome them.
Overall, A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful and moving play that explores the hopes, dreams, and struggles of an African American family in the 1950s. Through its use of symbols and themes, the play offers a poignant and insightful commentary on the human condition and the challenges of living in a society that is marked by inequality and injustice.
Racial and Social Issues
Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful play that explores the racial and social issues of the 1950s. Set in Chicago’s South Side, the play follows the Younger family as they struggle to achieve their dreams in a society that is deeply divided by race and class. Through the characters of Walter, Beneatha, and Mama, Hansberry examines the challenges faced by African Americans in a society that is still grappling with the legacy of slavery and segregation. The play also explores the role of gender in shaping the experiences of African American women, as seen through the character of Ruth. Overall, A Raisin in the Sun is a poignant and thought-provoking work that continues to resonate with audiences today.
The American Dream
The American Dream is a concept that has been deeply ingrained in the American psyche for centuries. It is the idea that anyone, regardless of their background or social status, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. This dream has been the subject of countless books, movies, and songs, and it is a central theme in Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun.
The play tells the story of the Younger family, an African American family living in Chicago in the 1950s. The family is struggling to make ends meet, and they are all dreaming of a better life. Walter, the patriarch of the family, dreams of starting his own business and becoming wealthy. His wife, Ruth, dreams of a better home for their family. Their son, Travis, dreams of having his own bedroom. And Walter’s sister, Beneatha, dreams of becoming a doctor.
All of these dreams are rooted in the American Dream, the idea that with hard work and determination, anyone can achieve success and prosperity. But the play also explores the limitations of the American Dream, particularly for African Americans in the 1950s. The Younger family faces discrimination and racism at every turn, and their dreams are constantly thwarted by the realities of their situation.
Despite these challenges, the Younger family never gives up on their dreams. They continue to fight for a better life, even when it seems impossible. And in the end, they find a way to make their dreams a reality, albeit in unexpected ways.
Through the story of the Younger family, Hansberry explores the complexities of the American Dream and the challenges that come with pursuing it. She shows us that while the dream may be achievable, it is not always easy, and it often requires sacrifice and perseverance. But ultimately, she reminds us that the American Dream is still worth pursuing, even in the face of adversity.
Feminism and Gender Roles
In Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, the theme of feminism and gender roles is prevalent throughout the play. The female characters, particularly Mama and Beneatha, challenge traditional gender roles and expectations placed upon them by society. Mama, as the matriarch of the family, is expected to be submissive and obedient to her husband’s wishes. However, she asserts her independence and decision-making power when she uses the insurance money to buy a house for her family. Beneatha, on the other hand, defies gender norms by pursuing a career in medicine and rejecting traditional notions of femininity. Through these characters, Hansberry highlights the importance of women’s agency and autonomy in a patriarchal society.
The Role of Family
The role of family is a central theme in Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun. The Younger family, consisting of Mama, Walter, Ruth, Beneatha, and Travis, are all living together in a small apartment in Chicago. Despite their cramped living conditions and financial struggles, the family remains close-knit and supportive of each other.
Mama, as the matriarch of the family, plays a significant role in keeping the family together. She is a strong and resilient woman who has worked hard her entire life to provide for her family. Mama’s values and beliefs are deeply rooted in her faith, and she instills these values in her children.
Walter, Mama’s son, is the head of the household and the primary breadwinner. He is a complex character who struggles with his identity and his role in the family. Walter’s desire to provide for his family and achieve the American Dream often leads him down a destructive path.
Ruth, Walter’s wife, is a devoted wife and mother who works hard to support her family. She is a stabilizing force in the family and often serves as a mediator between Mama and Walter.
Beneatha, Mama’s daughter, is a college student who is searching for her identity. She is a strong-willed and independent woman who challenges traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Beneatha’s desire to explore her African heritage and embrace her identity as a black woman often puts her at odds with her family.
Overall, the role of family in A Raisin in the Sun is essential to the story’s themes of identity, race, and the American Dream. The Younger family’s struggles and triumphs are a testament to the power of family and the importance of sticking together in times of hardship.
The Importance of Education
Education is a crucial aspect of personal and societal growth. It is through education that individuals gain knowledge, skills, and values that shape their lives and contribute to the development of their communities. In Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, education is a recurring theme that highlights the importance of learning and self-improvement. The characters in the play, particularly the younger generation, are eager to pursue education as a means of achieving their dreams and overcoming the obstacles that stand in their way. Through their struggles and triumphs, Hansberry emphasizes the transformative power of education and its role in shaping the future of individuals and society as a whole.
The Significance of the Title
The title of Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, holds significant meaning and symbolism. The title is taken from a line in Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem,” which asks, “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” This line speaks to the central theme of the play, which is the pursuit of the American Dream and the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving it. The “raisin in the sun” represents the dreams of the Younger family, which are constantly being deferred and threatened by the harsh realities of their lives. The title also alludes to the idea that even when dreams are deferred, they can still be revived and brought back to life, just as a raisin can be rehydrated and restored to its original form. Overall, the title of A Raisin in the Sun serves as a powerful symbol of hope, perseverance, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Religious References
Religious references are scattered throughout Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, adding depth and complexity to the characters and their struggles. The play’s title itself is a reference to a Langston Hughes poem that asks, “What happens to a dream deferred? / Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” This poem, with its themes of hope and despair, sets the tone for the play’s exploration of the American Dream and the obstacles that stand in its way.
Religion is also a significant aspect of the Younger family’s life. Mama, the matriarch of the family, is a devout Christian who believes that her faith will guide her family through their struggles. She frequently quotes scripture and prays for guidance, and her faith is a source of comfort and strength for her. However, her son Beneatha is skeptical of religion and questions its relevance in their lives. This tension between faith and doubt adds another layer to the family’s dynamic and highlights the generational and cultural differences between them.
Additionally, the play touches on themes of social justice and the role of religion in fighting for equality. The character of Reverend Sykes, a pastor in the Youngers’ community, is a vocal advocate for civil rights and encourages his congregation to take action against discrimination. His sermons and speeches are a call to action for the characters and the audience, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right and just.
Overall, the religious references in A Raisin in the Sun serve to deepen the characters and their struggles, while also highlighting the role of faith and social justice in the African American community.
The Use of Language and Dialogue
In Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, the use of language and dialogue is a crucial element in conveying the themes and messages of the play. The characters’ speech patterns and word choices reveal their personalities, motivations, and struggles. For example, Walter’s use of slang and colloquialisms reflects his desire to fit in with his peers and his frustration with his lack of success. Meanwhile, Beneatha’s more formal language and interest in African culture highlight her intellectual curiosity and search for identity. The dialogue between characters also reveals the tensions and conflicts within the Younger family, particularly regarding their differing dreams and aspirations. Through the use of language and dialogue, Hansberry creates a rich and complex portrayal of African American life in the mid-twentieth century.
Theatrical Techniques and Style
One of the most striking aspects of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is its use of theatrical techniques and style. The play is a prime example of realism, a style that emerged in the late 19th century and sought to depict life as it really is, without idealization or romanticization. Hansberry’s play is set in a cramped apartment in Chicago’s South Side, and the dialogue and actions of the characters are grounded in the everyday struggles of working-class African Americans.
Another notable technique used in the play is the use of symbolism. The title itself is a metaphor for the dreams and aspirations of the Younger family, who hope to escape poverty and discrimination and achieve a better life. The plant that Mama cares for throughout the play is also a symbol of hope and growth, representing the family’s determination to thrive despite the obstacles they face.
Hansberry also employs a variety of dramatic devices to heighten the tension and emotional impact of the play. For example, the use of overlapping dialogue and interruptions creates a sense of chaos and conflict, reflecting the tensions within the family. The use of music, particularly the spirituals sung by Beneatha, adds depth and richness to the play’s themes of heritage and identity.
Overall, the theatrical techniques and style used in A Raisin in the Sun contribute to its enduring impact and relevance. By depicting the struggles and aspirations of a working-class African American family with honesty and compassion, Hansberry created a powerful and moving work of art that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Criticism and Controversies
Despite its critical acclaim and enduring popularity, A Raisin in the Sun has not been immune to criticism and controversy. One of the main criticisms of the play is that it perpetuates stereotypes about African Americans. Some critics argue that the characters in the play are one-dimensional and that they reinforce negative stereotypes about black people being poor, uneducated, and struggling to make ends meet. Others have criticized the play for its portrayal of gender roles, arguing that the female characters are relegated to supporting roles and are not given the same level of agency as the male characters.
Another controversy surrounding A Raisin in the Sun is the question of whether or not it is a feminist play. Some critics argue that the play is a feminist work because it explores the experiences of women and their struggles for equality. Others, however, argue that the play is not feminist because it does not challenge the patriarchal structures that oppress women.
Despite these criticisms and controversies, A Raisin in the Sun remains a powerful and important work of literature. Its exploration of race, class, and gender continues to resonate with audiences today, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring relevance.
Adaptations and Influence
One of the most significant adaptations of A Raisin in the Sun was the 1961 film adaptation, which starred Sidney Poitier and Ruby Dee. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to bring Hansberry’s work to a wider audience. In addition to the film, the play has been adapted for television, radio, and the stage, and it has been translated into numerous languages.
The influence of A Raisin in the Sun can be seen in a variety of works that have followed it. For example, August Wilson’s play Fences, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1987, deals with similar themes of race, family, and the American Dream. Hansberry’s work has also been cited as an influence by contemporary writers such as Ta-Nehisi Coates and Jesmyn Ward.
Beyond its influence on literature, A Raisin in the Sun has had a significant impact on American culture and society. The play helped to bring issues of race and inequality to the forefront of public consciousness, and it played a role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Today, the play continues to be studied and performed, and it remains a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in the United States.
The Author’s Biography
Lorraine Hansberry was an African American playwright and writer who was born on May 19, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the youngest of four children and grew up in a middle-class family. Her parents were both activists in the civil rights movement, and their influence had a significant impact on Hansberry’s life and work. She attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison but left before completing her degree to pursue a career in writing. In 1959, Hansberry’s play A Raisin in the Sun premiered on Broadway, making her the first African American woman to have a play produced on Broadway. The play was a critical and commercial success and has since become a classic of American literature. Hansberry continued to write and advocate for civil rights until her death from cancer in 1965 at the age of 34. Her legacy as a writer and activist continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and activists.
The Writing and Publishing Process
The writing and publishing process of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun was not an easy one. Hansberry spent years crafting the play, drawing from her own experiences growing up in a racially segregated Chicago. She faced numerous rejections from publishers who were hesitant to take on a play that dealt with such controversial topics as racism and the African American experience. However, Hansberry persisted and eventually found a publisher who believed in her work. The play premiered on Broadway in 1959 and was met with critical acclaim, cementing Hansberry’s place in American literature. The writing and publishing process of A Raisin in the Sun serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of telling stories that challenge societal norms.
Reception and Legacy
The reception of A Raisin in the Sun was mixed upon its initial release in 1959. While some praised the play for its honest portrayal of the struggles faced by African American families, others criticized it for perpetuating stereotypes and promoting integrationist ideals. However, over time, the play has become a beloved classic of American literature and a staple of high school and college curriculums. Its themes of family, identity, and the American Dream continue to resonate with audiences today. A Raisin in the Sun has also inspired numerous adaptations, including a Tony Award-winning Broadway revival in 2014 and a film adaptation in 1961 starring Sidney Poitier. Hansberry’s legacy as a trailblazing African American playwright and activist has only grown in the years since her untimely death at the age of 34.