A Raisin In The Sun By Lorraine Hansberry

606 Words2 Pages

Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun is symbolized through the insurance check to show how dreams and reality co-exist with money. This play reveals how the shadow of financial security can connect and divide the family. The $10,000 insurance payment represents the hope and possibility that the life-changing money will be spent on the "American Dream." Receiving the check means something different to each person and reflects many possibilities. Walter Jr. wants to enter the liquor business, which he hopes will grow and bring financial freedom to the family. The check for Walter's wife gives her husband a chance to realize his dream and a rare opportunity to leave Chicago's South Side. For Beneatha, this check means the opportunity to enroll in the …show more content…

He launched into a discussion of his proposal to use the money as an investment in a liquor store. Mama stops Walter and suggests that he speak to his wife privately but ignores her” (1.1, 23). Mama's refusal to support Walter's dreams frustrates and disappoints him. Walter thinks she is depriving him of what he believes he should be: a husband, a father, a man who can provide for his family. The impatience of waiting for the dream check causes conflicts between families and arguments about what to do with the money, leading to broken fights about identity, personal dreams, and influence on the family. As the play continues, the money is used for the family's dreams: The liquor store, education, leaving Chicago, and a better home. Yet, when reality sets in when Walter tries to use the rest of the money to buy his dream store, there’s news that gets the family’s attention. Walter’s friend tells the story to the family that the money has been stolen. Emotions rise and the family is torn once again. As Walter looks at his shattered dreams and his family's hopes, Walter apologizes and wishes that he paid attention to his mother, wife, and

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