Character Analysis: A Raisin In The Sun

Samantha Vergara
Mr. Breiger
English 11 AP Period 5
16 October 2015 A Raisin in the Sun Synthesis Essay The state of humanity is a debatable topic, as it constantly has its ups and downs. For example, while humanity is moving forward in areas such as knowledge and technology, there are still many displays of ignorance and stupidity that make people wonder if progress is being made at all. Lorraine Hansberry, the praised playwright behind A Raisin in the Sun and The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, has experienced both the good and bad aspects of humanity and expresses it through her work. Although the majority of the characters and plot of A Raisin in the Sun suggest that humanity is repetitive, Hansberry uses some of her other characters,
Some of her characters are quite cynical and believe that humanity is not getting any better, while other characters remain optimistic and argue that things will always improve. For example, Walter Lee, the man of the Younger household, is initially obsessed with money and believes that it fuels life. Upon hearing this, his mother tells him that “in [her] time, [they] were worried about not being lynched and how to stay alive and still have a pinch of dignity” (849). Hansberry uses Mama’s statement to show how values have changed over time; the things that were once greatly appreciated don’t seem very relevant now, while more trivial things do. Hansberry is explaining that people are starting to shift their focus to more things that are not that important. In addition, she shows her understanding of this view through Mr. Lindner, a character who tries to bribe the Youngers out of moving into a white neighborhood. Mr. Lindner has a closed mind and is unwilling to accept change, which slows down any progression. Hansberry uses him as an example of what is holding humanity back. Finally, Hansberry expresses her view when Walter responds to Mr. Lindner’s offer. Walter tells Mr. Lindner that “[they] have decided to move into [the] house because [his] father earned it for [them] brick by brick” (885). This is a major turning point for Walter because it shows that he was
For example, Sidney Poitier, the actor who plays Walter, is able to show his thirst for money, his desperation, and how he completely crumbled when he lost it all. However, he is also able to build Walter back up in the end and convince the viewers that he is a new man with new values. In addition, this intense acting helped in cutting out scenes that explicitly stated Hansberry’s idea. While some of these scenes were key points that blatantly discussed the debate on humanity, such as the conversation between Asagai and Beneatha, the viewers are still able to understand the theme through context and acting. In addition, the exclusion leaves room for the viewers to form their own opinions on humanity. The acting and the directing choices in the film help deliver Hansberry’s message without having to state