“A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry is a powerful play that explores the dreams and aspirations of an African American family living in Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s. The title of the play is taken from a poem by Langston Hughes, which asks, “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” Through the characters’ struggles and triumphs, Hansberry brings to life the universal theme of the pursuit of dreams and the challenges and sacrifices involved.
One of the most memorable aspects of “A Raisin in the Sun” is the collection of quotes that capture the characters’ hopes, fears, and determination. These quotes not only showcase the individual dreams of the Younger family members, but also encapsulate the broader struggles faced by African Americans during this time period. Each quote is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
“I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy… I want to be able to give them things that a lot of other kids don’t have… I want to look in my children’s faces and feel like I have been useful in this world.”
These words, spoken by the matriarch Lena Younger, convey the deep desire she has to provide a better life for her children. Lena’s dream of owning a home becomes a symbol of hope and opportunity, and her determination to achieve this dream serves as a driving force for the entire family.
“And we have decided to move into our house because my father – my father – he earned it for us brick by brick… We don’t want your money.”
This quote from Walter Lee Younger highlights the struggle for dignity and independence in the face of racial discrimination. Walter’s dream of starting his own business and becoming a successful entrepreneur is not just about financial gain, but also about proving his worth in a society that has often marginalized and oppressed him.
Through these quotes and many others, “A Raisin in the Sun” explores the complexities of the American Dream and the challenges faced by African Americans in achieving their dreams. Hansberry’s masterful storytelling and powerful dialogue make this play a timeless masterpiece, inspiring audiences to reflect on their own dreams and the barriers they must overcome to attain them.
The Importance of Dreams
Dreams play a significant role in A Raisin in the Sun as they offer hope, inspiration, and motivation to the characters. Throughout the play, dreams are portrayed as a driving force that pushes the characters to strive for a better life and overcome the obstacles they face.
1. Motivation: Dreams provide the characters with the motivation to keep moving forward despite the challenges they encounter. For example, Lena Younger, also known as Mama, dreams of owning a house with a garden where her family can thrive. This dream motivates her to use the insurance money she receives to purchase a house in a white neighborhood, even though her family faces opposition and discrimination.
2. Hope: Dreams offer a sense of hope to characters who may feel trapped or oppressed. Walter Lee Younger dreams of becoming a successful businessman and providing a better life for his family. His dream gives him hope and keeps him going, even when it seems impossible. It represents his aspirations and desire to rise above his current circumstances.
3. Identity: Dreams can also shape and define a person’s identity. Beneatha Younger dreams of becoming a doctor and believes that education and independence will give her the freedom to explore her African heritage. Her dream reflects her desire to break free from societal expectations and establish her own identity.
4. Overcoming obstacles: Dreams provide characters with the strength and determination to overcome obstacles. When faced with racism, poverty, and discrimination, dreams help the characters navigate these challenges with resilience. They serve as a reminder of the better future they are working towards and give them the courage to persevere.
5. Symbol of empowerment: Dreams symbolize the characters’ empowerment and their refusal to accept the limitations imposed upon them. Through their dreams, the characters reject the notion that they are defined solely by their race, socioeconomic status, or gender. Instead, they assert their right to dream and strive for a better life.
Overall, dreams in A Raisin in the Sun serve as a powerful tool that drives the characters to pursue their goals and aspirations. They represent the human spirit’s capacity to imagine a better future and serve as a reminder of the importance of hope, motivation, and perseverance.
Overcoming Obstacles
“I always wanted to be a doctor…but I guess I finally come to realize that I ain’t never gonna be no doctor.” – Walter
Walter faces the obstacle of not being able to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor. Despite his frustration and disappointment, Walter finds a way to overcome this obstacle and channel his passion for a better future.
“Mama, something is happening between Walter and me. I don’t know what it is – but he needs something – something I can’t give him anymore.” – Ruth
Ruth realizes that there is a growing distance between her and Walter, indicating an obstacle in their relationship. Although she may not have a clear solution, Ruth acknowledges the problem and expresses her willingness to address it.
“Sometimes, it’s like I can see the future stretched out in front of me – just plain as day… I can see the future! I can see the future!” – Walter
Walter’s ambition and determination to envision a better future for himself and his family act as a driving force to overcome the obstacles in his path. Despite the setbacks, Walter maintains a hopeful outlook.
“Son, how come you talk so much ‘bout money?” – Lena
Lena questions her son’s obsession with money and reminds him that there are more important things in life. This serves as a reminder to overcome the obstacle of materialism and focus on what truly matters.
“Life can be mighty funny sometimes.” – Lena
Lena acknowledges that life can throw unexpected obstacles our way. Despite the humor in her statement, it serves as a reminder that overcoming obstacles requires resilience and adaptability.
Conclusion:
The characters in A Raisin in the Sun face various obstacles in pursuit of their dreams. Despite the challenges they encounter, they demonstrate resilience, determination, and the ability to adapt. This serves as an inspiration for readers to embrace their own obstacles and find ways to overcome them in pursuit of their own dreams.
Pursuit of Happiness
The pursuit of happiness is a central theme in Lorraine Hansberry’s masterpiece, “A Raisin in the Sun.” The play explores the dreams and aspirations of the Younger family and their struggle to achieve happiness in the face of racial discrimination and poverty.
“I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy.”
This quote, spoken by Beneatha Younger, reflects her desire for success and her determination to pursue her dreams. Beneatha is a strong and independent character who wants to become a doctor and break free from the limitations imposed on her by society. Her pursuit of happiness is rooted in her ambition and her refusal to be defined by societal expectations.
“I was just trying to say, sometimes it’s like the world is closing in on you, you get this feeling you can’t breathe… a below the ribs kind of panic.”
Walter Lee Younger, the protagonist of the play, expresses his frustration and discontent with his life. He feels trapped by poverty and the limited opportunities available to him. Walter’s pursuit of happiness takes the form of his desire to invest in a business and provide a better future for his family. However, his dreams are constantly thwarted, and he must navigate the difficult choices and sacrifices required to pursue his happiness.
“We one group of men tied to a race of women with small minds.”
Lena Younger, or Mama, speaks these words as she expresses her disappointment in her son, Walter. She believes that his pursuit of happiness has blinded him to the needs and aspirations of his family. Mama dreams of owning a house and creating a better life for her children and grandchildren. Her pursuit of happiness is deeply rooted in her love for her family and her desire to provide them with a better future.
“Then isn’t there something wrong in a house—in a world—where all dreams, good or bad, must depend on the death of a man?”
Ruth Younger poses this question as she reflects on the consequences of their decision to accept a payout from the neighborhood association. She questions whether their pursuit of happiness is dependent on the suffering and death of others. Ruth believes that true happiness can only be achieved when it is not at the expense of others.
| Character | Quotes |
|---|---|
| Beneatha Younger | “I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy.” |
| Walter Lee Younger | “I was just trying to say, sometimes it’s like the world is closing in on you, you get this feeling you can’t breathe… a below the ribs kind of panic.” |
| Lena Younger (Mama) | “We one group of men tied to a race of women with small minds.” |
| Ruth Younger | “Then isn’t there something wrong in a house—in a world—where all dreams, good or bad, must depend on the death of a man?” |
The pursuit of happiness is a universal theme that resonates with audiences even today. “A Raisin in the Sun” provides powerful insights into the challenges and sacrifices individuals, especially those from marginalized communities, face in their pursuit of happiness. It serves as a reminder that dreams and aspirations should not come at the expense of others and that true happiness lies in the collective well-being of all.
The Power of Hope
Hope is a powerful force that can drive individuals to pursue their dreams and overcome adversity. In Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, hope plays a central role in the lives of the Younger family as they navigate the challenges of racial discrimination and economic hardships.
Throughout the play, the Youngers demonstrate unwavering hope in the face of adversity. Despite living in a small, rundown apartment and facing constant discrimination, they hold onto their dreams of a better life. Their hope is evident in their determination to use the insurance money from Walter Lee’s father’s death to buy a house in a predominantly white neighborhood.
“I always wanted me a garden.” – Mama
Mama’s dream of having a garden represents her desire for a peaceful and beautiful life. Despite living in a cramped apartment, she nurtures a plant that symbolizes her hope for a brighter future. Her dream of owning a house with a garden embodies hope for a better life for herself and her family.
“I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy…” – Beneatha
Beneatha, the youngest member of the Younger family, dreams of becoming a doctor and pursuing her own identity. Her ambition and desire for knowledge reflect her hope of breaking free from societal expectations and pursuing her passion. Through her dreams, she symbolizes the power of hope to drive individuals towards self-fulfillment.
“Sometimes you just got to know when to give up some things… and hold onto what you got.” – Walter Lee
Walter Lee is a character who struggles with conflicting dreams and frustrations. While he initially dreams of using the insurance money to invest in a business venture, he ultimately learns the importance of holding onto what is truly valuable – family and hope. His statement highlights the transformative power of hope and the need to prioritize what truly matters in life.
Through the hopes and dreams of the Younger family, A Raisin in the Sun explores the complex nature of hope. It shows how hope can be both a source of inspiration and a source of despair. Despite the challenges they face, the Youngers cling to their dreams, demonstrating the resilience and power of hope to bring about change.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
In A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry explores the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. The characters in the play, particularly the Younger family, demonstrate remarkable resilience as they confront various challenges and obstacles that threaten to derail their dreams.
One of the central quotes that captures the theme of resilience is when Mama says, “Child, when do you think is the time to love somebody the most; when they done good and made things easy for everybody? Well then, you ain’t through learning—because that ain’t the time at all” [1]. In this quote, Mama emphasizes the importance of loving and supporting one another, especially during tough times. Her words reflect the resilience she exhibits throughout the play as she navigates the racial prejudices and financial struggles that confront her family.
Walter, Mama’s son, also exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity. Despite facing constant setbacks and disappointments, Walter maintains his determination to improve his family’s circumstances. In one stirring quote, he declares, “I’m tryin’ to talk to you ’bout myself and all you can say is eat them eggs and go to work” [2]. This quote highlights Walter’s frustration with his family’s lack of support for his dreams, but also his resilience in continuing to fight for his ambitions.
The theme of resilience is further explored through Beneatha’s character. She aspires to become a doctor, a dream that is met with skepticism and obstacles, particularly due to the era’s limited opportunities for black women. Despite this, Beneatha remains resilient in the pursuit of her dream and confidently states, “I’m so sick and tired of hearing about God…I’m gonna look for him myself and see how he likes it when I demand some answers” [3]. Through her determination, Beneatha exemplifies resilience in the face of societal barriers.
The Younger family’s resilience is also evident in their unwavering commitment to their dreams. Despite their limited resources, they refuse to give up on their aspirations. As Mama advises, “Sometimes you just got to know when to give up some things…and hold on to what you got” [4]. This quote showcases the family’s resilience in holding onto their dreams, even when faced with difficult choices.
Overall, A Raisin in the Sun explores the theme of resilience through the experiences of the Younger family. Their unwavering determination to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity serves as an inspiring example of resilience for readers and viewers alike.
- Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun
Breaking Boundaries
Breaking boundaries is a recurring theme in Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun. Each character in the Younger family dreams of surpassing their current limitations and achieving something greater. These dreams are expressed both through their aspirations and the hurdles they face on their journey towards personal fulfillment.
1. Dreams as agents of change: The Younger family’s dreams serve as catalysts for personal and societal transformation. Each character’s dream pushes them to challenge the limitations imposed on them by their social and economic circumstances. Through their dreams, they venture beyond what is expected of them and strive for a better future.
2. The role of ambition: A Raisin in the Sun highlights the importance of ambition in breaking boundaries. Walter’s desire to become a successful businessman, Beneatha’s aspiration to become a doctor, and Mama’s dream of owning a house all stem from their ambition to improve their lives and secure a better future for themselves and their family.
3. Obstacles and perseverance: Breaking boundaries is not an easy task, and the characters face numerous obstacles throughout the play. They encounter financial hardships, racial prejudices, and personal doubts. However, their determination and perseverance enable them to overcome these challenges and remain focused on their dreams.
4. The power of unity: The Younger family’s unity and support for one another play a crucial role in breaking boundaries. Despite their differences, they come together to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams. Their collective strength and the bond they share as a family enable them to face obstacles head-on and move closer to achieving their goals.
5. Inspiring future generations: Breaking boundaries is not only a personal journey but also an act of inspiration for future generations. The Younger family’s pursuit of their dreams challenges the status quo and encourages others to dream big and fight for their aspirations, regardless of their background or the obstacles they may face.
| Key Themes | Related Quotes |
|---|---|
| Ambition |
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| Unity |
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| Perseverance |
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Through the theme of breaking boundaries, A Raisin in the Sun explores the power of dreams and determination in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal fulfillment. The Younger family’s journey serves as an inspiration for all those who dare to dream and challenge the boundaries set by society.
Dreams and Identity
In “A Raisin in the Sun,” dreams play a crucial role in shaping the characters’ identities. Through their aspirations, the characters reveal their desires, their hopes for the future, and their determination to overcome challenges. These dreams also reflect the characters’ identities and their desires for personal growth and fulfillment.
1. Walter Lee Younger: One of the main characters in the play, Walter Lee Younger, is a man with big dreams. He wants to invest in a business venture and become a successful entrepreneur. Walter’s dream represents his desire for financial independence and the opportunity to uplift his family from their current economic situation. His dream is a reflection of his identity as a provider and his ambitions to achieve a better life.
2. Beneatha Younger: Beneatha, Walter’s sister, has a dream of her own. She aspires to become a doctor and break free from societal expectations for women. Beneatha’s dream reflects her strong sense of identity and her determination to challenge traditional gender roles. She wants to pursue a career in medicine to prove that women can achieve success in male-dominated fields and to make a meaningful contribution to society.
3. Mama (Lena Younger): Mama, the matriarch of the Younger family, also has dreams that shape her identity. Her dream is to own a house with a garden, a place where her family can thrive and find stability. Mama’s dream represents her identity as a nurturer and her desire to create a safe and secure environment for her loved ones. Her dream reflects her values and her role as the emotional center of the family.
4. Ruth Younger: Ruth, Walter’s wife, has dreams that center around her family. She dreams of a harmonious family life and a stable home for her son, Travis. Ruth’s dream reflects her identity as a caregiver and her desire to provide a nurturing environment for her child. Her dream highlights the importance of family and the sacrifices she is willing to make to achieve a better life for her loved ones.
The dreams of the characters in “A Raisin in the Sun” are not merely wishful thinking. They are a reflection of their identities, their values, and their determination to overcome adversity. Through their dreams, the characters assert their individuality, challenge societal norms, and strive for personal growth and fulfillment.
Inspiring Future Generations
In A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry explores the dreams and aspirations of the Younger family, offering valuable insights and inspiration for future generations. The play addresses the challenges faced by African Americans in pursuing their dreams and highlights the importance of resilience, determination, and unity.
Through the characters of Walter Lee Younger and Beneatha Younger, Hansberry emphasizes the significance of having dreams and working towards achieving them. Despite facing numerous obstacles, the Younger family remains resilient and determined, serving as an inspiration for future generations to never give up on their aspirations.
Hansberry’s play also explores the role of education in shaping dreams. Beneatha, a college student aspiring to become a doctor, represents the importance of education in broadening horizons and providing opportunities for personal growth and success. Her character motivates future generations to embrace education as a means to achieve their dreams.
The play’s central theme of the American Dream resonates with people of all backgrounds and generations. It serves as a reminder that dreams have no limitations and that hard work, perseverance, and unity can bring them to fruition.
- Hard work: The play highlights the significance of hard work in achieving dreams. Walter Lee’s determination to improve the lives of his family, despite encountering setbacks, encourages future generations to work relentlessly towards accomplishing their goals.
- Perseverance: The Younger family’s ability to overcome adversity and keep their dreams alive instills a sense of perseverance in future generations. The play teaches us that setbacks are temporary, and with determination, we can overcome any obstacle in our path.
- Unity: The unity displayed by the Younger family in the face of challenges is another important lesson for future generations. It emphasizes the power of support and teamwork in pursuing dreams and encourages individuals to stand together to achieve common goals.
In conclusion, A Raisin in the Sun offers timeless inspiration for future generations. Through its exploration of dreams, hard work, perseverance, and unity, the play serves as a powerful reminder that anyone can achieve their aspirations if they are willing to put in the effort and remain determined.
Question and answer:
What are some quotes about dreams from “A Raisin in the Sun”?
Some quotes about dreams from “A Raisin in the Sun” include: “Beneathas: Sometimes, sometimes…in my bed at night…I dream of flying,” and “Walter: I want so many things that they are driving me kind of crazy…Mama, sometimes when I’m downtown and I pass them cool-quiet-looking restaurants where them white boys are sitting back and talking bout things…sitting there turning deals worth millions of dollars…sometimes I see guys don’t look much older than me.”
How does the play depict the importance of dreams?
The play “A Raisin in the Sun” depicts the importance of dreams by showing how they can inspire and motivate individuals to strive for a better life. The characters in the play, such as Walter and Beneatha, have dreams of their own and are willing to work hard to achieve them. It highlights the idea that dreams are essential for personal growth and the pursuit of happiness.
What do the characters in “A Raisin in the Sun” dream of?
The characters in “A Raisin in the Sun” dream of various things. Walter dreams of becoming a successful businessman and providing a better life for his family. Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor and breaking gender and racial barriers. Ruth dreams of having a stable and comfortable home for her family. These dreams reflect their desires for personal and social progress.
How do the dreams in the play inspire the characters?
The dreams in the play inspire the characters by giving them hope and a sense of purpose. The characters are driven by their dreams to overcome obstacles and work towards their goals. For example, Walter’s dream of becoming a wealthy businessman pushes him to take risks and pursue opportunities, even in the face of difficulties. The dreams provide the characters with a reason to keep going and strive for a better future.
Are there any quotes about the challenges of achieving dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
Yes, there are quotes about the challenges of achieving dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun.” For example, Walter says, “Seems like God didn’t see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams – but He did give us children to make them dreams seem worth while.” This quote reflects the struggle and obstacles that the characters face in trying to achieve their dreams within a society that is discriminatory and oppressive.
How do the dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun” relate to the theme of the play?
The dreams in “A Raisin in the Sun” relate to the theme of the play by exploring the idea of the American dream and the challenges faced by African Americans in pursuing their dreams. The play raises questions about the limitations imposed by societal barriers and the impact of poverty and racism on individuals’ aspirations. It highlights the importance of dreams as a means of empowerment and a catalyst for social change.
What is the significance of the play’s title, “A Raisin in the Sun”?
The title “A Raisin in the Sun” is taken from the Langston Hughes poem “Harlem,” which asks, “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” The title symbolizes the dreams of the characters in the play and the consequences of ignoring or delaying those dreams. It suggests that dreams, like raisins in the sun, may wither and lose their vitality if not pursued.