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A Raisin in the Sun: Complete Summary and Analysis

Lorraine Hansberry’s 1959 play, A Raisin in the Sun, is a landmark work in American literature that depicts the struggles of a Black family in Chicago. As the Younger family awaits a life-changing insurance check, they must navigate racial prejudice, internal conflicts, and the weight of their own deferred dreams.

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Plot Summary and Major Events

The story centers on the Youngers, a multigenerational family living in a cramped apartment on Chicago's South Side. The plot is set in motion by the arrival of a $10,000 life insurance check following the death of the family patriarch. Each family member has a different vision for the money: Lena (Mama) wants to buy a house to provide stability, Walter Lee dreams of investing in a liquor store to achieve financial independence, and Beneatha hopes to use it for her medical school tuition. The tension culminates when Mama puts a down payment on a house in Clybourne Park, an all-white neighborhood, while Walter Lee's subsequent investment goes awry due to a betrayal by a business partner.

Core Characters and Motivations

The characters represent various facets of the African American experience in the mid-20th century. Walter Lee Younger struggles with his sense of manhood and the pressure to provide. Mama serves as the moral compass, prioritizing family dignity over material wealth. Beneatha Younger represents the rising generation, searching for her identity through education and a connection to her African roots. Ruth Younger, Walter's wife, acts as a pragmatist trying to hold the family together despite the emotional and financial strain.

Key Themes: Dreams and Discrimination

The title, inspired by Langston Hughes's poetry, highlights the central theme of 'dreams deferred.' The play explores what happens to individuals when their aspirations are stalled by societal barriers. Racial discrimination is a driving force, particularly through the character of Karl Lindner, who represents the neighborhood 'welcoming committee' and attempts to bribe the family to stay away. Despite these obstacles, the play ultimately emphasizes the importance of family unity and the refusal to sacrifice one's pride for money.

Study Guide for Essays and Discussions

When analyzing the play for class, focus on symbols like Mama’s struggling potted plant, which represents her family's resilience. Pay attention to the generational divide between Mama’s traditional values and Beneatha’s modern outlook. For essay prompts, consider comparing the different definitions of 'The American Dream' held by each character. Additionally, reflect on how the play addresses historical issues like redlining and housing segregation, which remain relevant topics in contemporary literary discussions.

What is the significance of the title?

The title is a reference to the Langston Hughes poem 'Harlem,' which asks if a dream deferred dries up 'like a raisin in the sun.' It suggests that ignored dreams can become heavy or even explosive burdens.

Why does Walter Lee lose the money?

Walter Lee gives the remaining insurance money to his friend Willy Harris to start a liquor store business. However, Willy disappears with the cash, leaving Walter and the family in a dire financial position.

Does the family move to the new house at the end?

Yes. Despite the loss of the money and the intimidation from the Clybourne Park residents, Walter Lee decides that the family's pride is worth more than a payout, and they choose to move into their new home.

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