A Raisin In The Sun Assimilation Essay

593 Words2 Pages

LaQuanda Clayton April 17, 2024 Block 4 The idea of assimilation becomes an important theme in A Raisin in the Sun. The Younger family, an African American household, struggles to balance their cultural identity with the pressure to conform to white, middle-class norms. As they consider how to use their insurance payout, the family must decide whether to invest in a home in a white neighborhood or start a business, reflecting the tension between assimilation and preserving their roots. The play’s title, “A Raisin in the Sun,” relates to the dreams of the main characters. Like a raisin drying up in the sun, the characters’ aspirations risk withering away if not properly nurtured. For Mama, it is the dream of providing a better home for her family. For Walter, it is the dream of becoming a successful businessman. For Beneatha, it is the dream of becoming a doctor and embracing her African heritage. The title serves as a metaphor for the …show more content…

The insurance payout represents a chance for the family to improve their circumstances, but it also becomes a source of tension as they debate how to use the funds. Walter’s desire to invest in the liquor store reflects his desperation to achieve financial security, while Mama’s decision to use the money for a house speaks to her commitment to providing a stable home. The power of money shapes the characters’ choices and the trajectory of the play. The balance of power and authority shifts throughout the play as the characters navigate their individual and collective dreams. Initially, Mama held the most authority as the matriarch of the family. However, as Walter’s ambitions grow, he seeks to assert control over the family’s finances and decision-making. The arrival of Mr. Lindner, representing the white community’s resistance to the Younger family’s move, further complicates the power dynamics, forcing the family to unite and stand their

Open Document