In Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun," the theme of money is closely tied to the theme of life. The characters in the play are constantly grappling with financial struggles and the ways in which money impacts their dreams and their sense of identity.
At the beginning of the play, the main character, Walter, is deeply frustrated by his lack of financial success. He feels trapped in a job that he hates, and he is unable to provide for his family in the way that he wants to. Walter's sense of worth is closely tied to his ability to provide for his family, and he feels like a failure because he is unable to do so.
However, as the play progresses, it becomes clear that money is not the only source of life and fulfillment. The other characters in the play, including Walter's mother and sister, have their own dreams and desires that go beyond financial success. They want to live meaningful, fulfilling lives, and they are willing to take risks and make sacrifices in order to pursue their dreams.
Ultimately, "A Raisin in the Sun" suggests that while money is important, it is not the only thing that matters in life. It is possible to find meaning and purpose in other areas, such as relationships, personal growth, and the pursuit of one's passions. The play encourages readers to think about what truly brings them happiness and fulfillment, and to not let financial struggles define their sense of self-worth.
What role does money play in A Raisin in the Sun?
And forgive me for ever wanting to be anything at all! Unfortunately, his partner proved to be a disappointment, and in the end the investment does not prove fruitful. One of the most famous quotes from the book by Lorraine Hansberry about money is Mama's line that, "Oh—So now it's life. Ruth reenters from the bedroom and, soon after, the doorbell rings, a sudden sound that signals that the mailman has arrived with the insurance check. She thinks the family should stop pampering him. When Beneatha asks why Mama would want to keep that "raggedy-looking old thing," Mama Younger replies: "It expresses me. In one conversation with Asagai, Beneatha has an outburst on how she felt about Walter using the portion of the money that was saved for her.
A Raisin in the Sun Act 3 Summary & Analysis
For Walter, money seems to be the answer to everything. This quote shows the importance that is placed on money. Note: In the film version, Mr. This quote is from Walter to his family, it shows that Walter tries to prevent his family from poverty. Beneatha excitedly tells Mama that Asagai proposed to her that afternoon, but in the busyness of the moment Mama brushes off the conversation.
A Raisin in the Sun Act 1, Scene 2 Summary & Analysis
And forgive me for ever wanting to be anything at all! Man say: I got to take hold of this here world, baby! In A Raisin in the Sun, each character is impacted by money in different ways. It was almost a renewing moment for Walter as his family life changed for the better since he was now acting as the man of the house. At this particular point in their lives, Mama's husband has just died, leaving behind an insurance check pg. While it can be seen as a vice, it is clearly shown that lack of money is a much worse situation than having the vices that come with too much money. To Ruth, money is enough to make her see past things like a bad personality. The members of the Younger family view money in different ways, with Mama, Beneatha, and Ruth imagining money as a means to an end and Walter thinking of it as an end in itself. Man say to his woman: I got me a dream.
A Raisin in the Sun: Play, Themes & Summary
Unlike Walter, Mama believes that family is more important than material wealth. When they done good and made things easy for everybody? By using himself as an example, Asagai explains to Beneatha that progress occurs in starts and stops, encouraging her to hold on to her dream despite this recent setback. Lesson Summary Langston Hughes' poem, Montage of a Dream Deferred asks, What Happens to A Dream Deferred? However, Lena does not initially support her son's dream because of her Christian ideals, which greatly affects Walter's attitude as he becomes extremely depressed about not fulfilling his dream. Travis returns moments later and Mama opens the envelope. What are the discussion questions for A Raisin in the Sun? The tantalizing arrival of the insurance check creates an expectant atmosphere. Ruth Younger Walter's wife is a thirtyish, very laidback woman. For Walter, who feels enslaved in his job and life, money is the truest freedom.
A Raisin in the Sun: Money is Only an Object Essay
What does Mama do with the money? None of the Youngers feels pity for Walter, and it seems now that none of their dreams will come true. Not everything has been fixed. He is the symbol of hope and ambition, dreams and desires, passion and fury. And from now on it is for you to look after. Characters Walter Lee Younger and Willy Loman are prime examples of this, both pinning their hopes on unattainable dreams to hide the feelings of failure. In my time we was worried about not being lynched and getting to the North if we could and how to stay alive and still have a pinch of dignity too.
Act 2, Scene 3 of 'A Raisin in the Sun'
Walter then leaves for his job as a chauffeur—he has to ask Ruth for money to get to work because the money he gave Travis was his car fare. The life insurance check that Mama receives after the death of her husband represents hope, as each member of the family sees it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make their dreams come true. When Walter loses his "sister's school money," the consequences are widespread and Beneatha sees that dream diminish before her eyes. Walter Lee Younger, the son, so desperate to better provide for his family, wants to invest all the money into a liquor store with two of his friends. The rest you put in a checking account-with your name on it.
