Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin In The Sun

Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin In The Sun: Life, Liberty, And The Pursuit of Happiness “A Raisin in the Sun” resonates with many of its readers, but why? Many of its readers differ in race, religion, gender, and socioeconomic background. So how is it that a black family struggling with racial prejudice and economic hardship appeals to so many? Each member of the Younger family has a dream, a want to be more. As Hansberry’s play unfolds, the reader senses that these dreams could be the demise of a family or the step to a better tomorrow. Perhaps the Younger family attracts such a varying audience due to Lorraine Hansberry’s use of symbolism, imagery, and irony to show the importance of family, the value of a dream, and the daily struggle to

The first mention of the check occurs in Act I, scene I when Walter asks his wife Ruth, “Check coming today?” (273). Walter sees the check as a key to unlock the doors that have remained closed for him most of his life. Money is necessary for everyone on the home to reach his or her dreams. For Walter, the check means he can open a liquor store (278). But as the reader later finds out, the check for Walter also symbolizes his greed. For Beneatha, Walter’s sister and Lena’s daughter, the check means the possibility of attending medical school (281). “Eat your eggs,” is a phrase that is repeated a number of times throughout Act I first by Ruth and then mockingly by Walter (279). This back and forth exchange of “Eat your eggs” occurs as Walter is trying to his farfetched dream of having his own liquor store. Eggs have been known to represent fertility and later on in the play the phrase becomes noteworthy because Lena reveals to her son that Ruth is pregnant (Act 2, Scene I

The main room of the home is small which signifies the economic state of the family. All the furniture, despite its age and wear is polished which shows the pride the Youngers have. They may not have much but for the most part each member of the family seems appreciative of what little they do have. The apartment also features one small window that provides the “sole natural light” for the apartment (271-272). In Act II, scene I Lena tells Travis about the new home she has purchased for the family. The new home features “three bedrooms...a yard with a patch of dirt...and a nice big basement” (319). While many may see the new home as simply a new home, Lena sees the home as promise for the future. A great home could one day make Travis into a great