A Raisin in the Sun

Part A: One striking aspect in "A Raisin in the Sun" was in Act II Scene III, when Bobo gives Walter the news that Willy went off with the money for the liquor business. I honestly did not think that would happen. I respected Willy to be one of Walter's good friends. I thought they would invest in the liquor business together and make good money. I was in total disbelief when Bobo announced the bad news.

Also in Act III, I did not expect Walter to change his mind about accepting Mr. Linder's "exchange". I was totally surprised to find out Walter finally "comes into his manhood" with his decision. My perception of him changed for the better. For once throughout the entire play, I was proud of what Walter did.

Part B: Does A Raisin on the Sun present timeless issues?

No, A Raisin in the Sun presents many issues that are still common today. For example, my families today go through hard times such as deciding to have an abortion. Ruth became pregnant and actually put a down payment for an abortion. During the 1950's abortions were illegal, making her decision even harder. Abortions are difficult decisions many women face today as well.

Another issue still common today are problems in marriage. At one point in the play Walter and Ruth's love for one another was questioned. They fought badly at times, thus their marriage was heading in the wrong direction. In today's society 50% of marriages end in divorce indicating major problems with the partners.

Lastly, racism still exists today. The Youngers faced racism before they even moved into their new house when Mr. Linder offers the Youngers money in exchange for moving somewhere else. Mr. Linder and the rest of the white community thought this decision was for the best for the community. Mr. Linder gives them the offer without even giving the family a chance, thus showing prejudice.

Justina Klecha

Intro to Literature 150-26

Professor Clovia Feldman

February 15, 2005

Exploration of the Text

How does the urban setting establish the atmosphere and mood of the play?

The urban setting establishes the perfect atmosphere. If the setting were in a rural area, the mood of the play would be different. Jobs for example, would be harder to have and maintain. This would cause more tension and problems with the family. Transportation would also have been more difficult. In the urban setting, automobiles were available as transportation. For example, Walter borrowed a car when he was depressed and didn't go to work for three days.

Also in the new community, the Clybourne Park Improvement Association played a big part. Walter considered not even moving into their new house because of the racism they would be faced with. The Youngers were obviously not welcome by their new neighbors. Different levels of racism are exposed in rural and in city settings. Communities in urban setting seem to team up and work together. Urban settings are not too crowded or to scattered, therefore the communities are stronger.

Explore the primary conflicts of the play. What escalates the tension among the characters?

The primary conflicts of the play involve every member of the Younger family's individual dreams. They all struggle to reach their dreams through out the play. For example, Beneatha wants to become a doctor, Walter wants to have money so that he can afford things for his family, and mama wants a new house with a garden.

Financial