The play is about a black family struggling to fulfill their own version of the American dream. Walter Younger believes that the way to the American Dream is self-respect and support from those closest to him. Walter is a chauffeur to a wealthy white man and considers his job to be a disgrace to himself. He wants to open a liquor store with a friend using the money from his deceased father’s insurance. This play shows how success can change the way a man behaves, and ultimately what the American dream can do to a man. Walter, before his mother has given him money for the liquor store was rude, however, after being given the money became friendly and lovable. For Walter, the short time of being “on top” served as the main theme of the American Dream in this play. During this time Walter was successful, he was rude and overly prideful. When Mr. Lindner offered money for Walter’s family to not move into the new house, Walter told him flat on his face that “We don't want your money”. When Walter’s era of being successful is over, Walter falls back and ask Mr. Lindner for money, willing to do anything, even letting go of his most prized possession. This becomes a low point in the play because he was willing to let go of the one thing he had: his self-respect. However, by refusing to take the money, he maintains his respect. This play teaches that a short lived term of success does not define the American dream and any short term of success should not be dealt with arrogance and
The play is about a black family struggling to fulfill their own version of the American dream. Walter Younger believes that the way to the American Dream is self-respect and support from those closest to him. Walter is a chauffeur to a wealthy white man and considers his job to be a disgrace to himself. He wants to open a liquor store with a friend using the money from his deceased father’s insurance. This play shows how success can change the way a man behaves, and ultimately what the American dream can do to a man. Walter, before his mother has given him money for the liquor store was rude, however, after being given the money became friendly and lovable. For Walter, the short time of being “on top” served as the main theme of the American Dream in this play. During this time Walter was successful, he was rude and overly prideful. When Mr. Lindner offered money for Walter’s family to not move into the new house, Walter told him flat on his face that “We don't want your money”. When Walter’s era of being successful is over, Walter falls back and ask Mr. Lindner for money, willing to do anything, even letting go of his most prized possession. This becomes a low point in the play because he was willing to let go of the one thing he had: his self-respect. However, by refusing to take the money, he maintains his respect. This play teaches that a short lived term of success does not define the American dream and any short term of success should not be dealt with arrogance and