A Raisin In The Sun: Dreams Deferred & Legacy

Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is a landmark play that delves into the lives of the Younger family, African Americans living in a cramped apartment on Chicago's South Side in the 1950s. The play's title, taken from Langston Hughes's poem "Harlem" (also known as "Dream Deferred"), sets the stage for a powerful exploration of dreams, racism, and the struggle for a better life.

The Younger Family's Dreams

The play revolves around the $10,000 life insurance check the family receives after the death of Mama Younger's husband. Each member of the family has their own dreams and ideas on how to use the money:

• Mama (Lena Younger): Wants to buy a house in a better neighborhood to provide her family with a more dignified life and a chance to escape the confines of their current living situation.
• Walter Lee Younger: Mama's son, a chauffeur, dreams of opening a liquor store to achieve financial independence and provide more for his family. He feels stifled by his current job and yearns for entrepreneurial success.
• Beneatha Younger: Walter's sister, a college student, aspires to become a doctor. She represents the changing attitudes of the younger generation and seeks to define her identity in a world grappling with racial inequality.
• Ruth Younger: Walter's wife, is weary of their impoverished living conditions and simply wants a home where her family can thrive. She discovers she is pregnant and considers abortion due to their financial strain, highlighting the desperation of their situation.

Conflicts and Tensions

As the family debates how to use the money, tensions rise. Walter feels emasculated by his lack of control over his life and clashes with Mama and Beneatha. Beneatha struggles with her identity as a black woman, exploring her African heritage and questioning the values of the dominant white culture. Ruth is caught in the middle, trying to maintain peace and stability within the family.

The Clybourne Park Incident

Mama ultimately uses a portion of the money to make a down payment on a house in Clybourne Park, a predominantly white neighborhood. This decision is met with resistance from the neighborhood's welcoming committee, represented by Karl Lindner, who attempts to buy the Youngers out to prevent them from moving in. This incident highlights the overt racism and discrimination faced by African Americans during this era.

Walter's Decision

In a moment of desperation, Walter invests the remaining money in the liquor store venture with his friend Willy Harris, who promptly runs off with it. This betrayal devastates the family and threatens their dream of a better life. However, Walter ultimately redeems himself by refusing to accept Lindner's offer, choosing instead to move into the new house with his family and face whatever challenges may come.

Themes and Legacy

A Raisin in the Sun explores several enduring themes, including:

• The American Dream: The play questions whether the American Dream is attainable for all, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.
• Family and Identity: The importance of family bonds and the struggle to define one's identity in the face of adversity are central themes.
• Racism and Discrimination: The play confronts the pervasive racism and discrimination faced by African Americans in the mid-20th century.

A Raisin in the Sun remains a powerful and relevant work of art, sparking important conversations about race, class, and the pursuit of dreams. Its enduring legacy lies in its honest portrayal of the human condition and its unflinching examination of the challenges faced by African Americans in their quest for equality and opportunity. The play's themes continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of hope, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a better future. Consider exploring other works reflecting on similar themes to deepen your understanding.