Beneatha Silent Me Analysis

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African American women's roles throughout the 1950’s were strictly domesticated by man and society, leaving Beneatha inferior. Beneatha and women alike in this time period were taught to disregard or ignore any type of self-diligence. Benny is forced to be apologetic for the dreams she so dearly desires, (Dropping to her knees) “Well – I do – all right? – thank everybody! And forgive me for ever wanting to be anything at all! (Pursuing him on her knees across the floor) FORGIVE ME, FORGIVE ME, FORGIVE ME!” (1.1.123). The expectation for women was and still is to subdue their thinking of great matters in life. Beneatha is forced to be ashamed for having dreams. In Walter’s eyes her dream of becoming a doctor seems too far-fetched. With this …show more content…

Asagai, Beneatha’s friend and lover throughout the book pressures her into making immense decisions about spending their lives together in Africa. Asagai implements that she doesn’t need a job to fill her desires. When Beneatha not only wants him to support her, he discourages her dreams and aspirations. If Asagai demands the head of their relationship, her penultimate sacrifice is her dream of becoming a doctor. If Beneatha doesn't have a job then she'll be forced to use his income. This issue adds to Beneatha’s lack of confidence and financially not being able to support herself on her own. Scholar Charles Washington discusses the perception and ideology of women. He quotes, “Generally, these standards differ concording to the sex of the individual: A good man, for instance, is strong, aggressive-masculine-, where as a good woman is sweet, gentle-feminine” (Washington 111). Charles only adds to the stereotypes in society that focuses on exploiting and defining women as they aren't. In disagreement with Charles, his views lack discernment. Benny represents the constant struggle of women throughout her time period. She is determined to find her fulfillers as an individual and not be defined or dependent on the man she

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