Act 1
In Act 1 of “A Raisin in the Sun,” each character discusses their dreams and aspirations. For example, Walter Lee Younger dreams of becoming wealthy and successful, envisioning himself as a business owner and breadwinner for his family. Interestingly, he puts all the responsibility for his family on himself and believes that women are incapable of anything.
Because of this position, he often argues with his younger sister and humiliates his wife. While all female characters strive to be realized as women, their embodiments of the American Dream are quite different. On the one hand, Lena and Ruth dream of well-being and happiness for their family and children. Moreover, Ruth is pregnant, so her main dream is to ensure a happy future for her child.
On the other hand, Beneatha is an image of a strong woman who dreams of becoming a doctor and challenging traditional gender roles and cultural norms. Travis’s dreams are quite material and consist of his space and a place to play outside. Even though the family’s dreams are quite different, the main obstacle to their realization is racism and the conditions of life of the family caused by it. Moreover, women face gender discrimination, a significant barrier to realizing their aspirations.
Although the play depicts a strained relationship and misunderstandings between male and female characters, the Youngers are united in overcoming the emerging challenges of being a black family living in a racially discriminatory society. For example, Mama cares deeply about the welfare of her family. She is affectionate and supportive of her children and grandchildren but also has a serious attitude that can sometimes be harsh and critical. She often confronts Walter due to her different world views.
Moreover, Walter’s depressed state due to his inability to support a family is often the cause of his quarrels with his sister. Beneatha disagrees with her brother on gender roles, and her lifestyle contradicts the worldview of other characters. Although Walter’s wife, Ruth, feels neglected by her husband, she does her best to save the family, making her the opposite of Beneatha.
Act 1 uses many symbols that the author uses to better represent the internal state of family members and external circumstances. For example, the act takes place in the cramped and cluttered apartment where the family lives and symbolizes the constraints and limitations they face in their daily lives. Another prominent symbol is Mama’s plant, which symbolizes her hope for a better future and the nurturing and growth she provides for her family. The plant represents life and vitality, and Lena’s efforts to care for it represent her desire to nurture her family and create a stable home environment.
Act 2
In Act 2, the tensions within the Younger family come to a head as they grapple with issues of identity, morality, and financial security. One of the most important moments in the scene occurs when Walter’s sister, Beneatha, confronts him over his lack of ambition and his willingness to compromise his principles for the sake of financial gain. She reproaches her brother for putting himself and his pride above his children’s future. This scene highlights the tensions between materialism and spirituality. Moreover, it focuses on society’s indifference to the problems of the poor.
Furthermore, scene 2 demonstrates the dominance of the white population, who often seek to profit from black people. The arrival of Walter’s business associate and the news that their investments have been stolen leads to aggression and despair. Walter is aware of the social injustice where African Americans are not only not given the resources and opportunities they need but are being taken away from what is already theirs. Moreover, this scene demonstrates the material and psychological damage that racism and discrimination bring.
In addition, the second act showcases ingrained segregation and racism, portrayed through Karl Lindner’s arrival. This scene demonstrates how society struggles to separate the black population from itself and prevent their assimilation with white people. Moreover, the act raises important questions about the nature of the American dream and the limits of individual ambition in the face of social and economic inequality.
Act 3
In the third act of “A Raisin in the Sun,” Mama takes responsibility for her family’s future. She finally pays a down payment on a new house in a predominantly white neighborhood. It is a symbol of hope and progress and demonstrates the gender misconceptions that were previously in the play. Walter realizes he was wrong and apologizes to his wife. This scene shows the character’s development and his understanding of the need to unite to resist discrimination collectively.
Another critical point is Walter’s decision to reject Karl Lindner’s money offer and defend his dignity with his family. The obstacles that the character faced throughout the play led to a change in his views. He no longer wants to try to assimilate into white society but recognizes himself as black with equal rights. This scene raises important questions about identity and family values.