Symbolism In Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin In The Sun

In the play A Raisin in the Sun, the author introduces various symbols as the play progresses, representing the dreams and desires of the characters. Among all these symbols in the play, the names of the characters illustrate each character’s personality best. Although symbols are usually physical objects that represent an abstract idea or thought, names have become symbols in this play, including Beneatha’s own name and George Murchison’s nickname for Walter Lee Younger, Prometheus.
First, Beneatha’s name accurately displays her obnoxious personality at the beginning of the play. Beneatha acts as though everyone in her family is beneath her because of the education she has received. She fails to recognize what others in her family have done to help put her through school, seen clearly in what Walter said to her, “Me and Ruth done made some sacrifices to you--why can’t you do something for your family?” (I.i.37). Furthermore, when Beneatha tells Ruth and Mama about expressing herself and they start laughing, Beneatha says, “Don’t worry--I don’t expect you to understand.” (I.i.48). Beneatha’s condescending attitude towards her family comes from her own view of her family--beneath her--making Beneatha an apt name for such a self-centered character.
Besides that, the name Prometheus, first used by George, befits Walter because of his continuous

efforts to provide for his family. Like Prometheus, the mythological figure who brought fire to the mortals, Walter wanted to provide for his own family, but he couldn’t find any other way to do so except for the liquor store. Prometheus later gets chained on a rock for an eagle to peck on his liver for the rest of his life. Similarly, Walter’s own family and society become the chains that restrain him from accomplishing his dreams. For instance, when the check arrived at the Youngers’ home and Walter demanded money for his liquor store, Mama opposes this, saying, “And there ain’t going to be no investing in no liquor stores,” (I.ii.70) and promptly shooting down Walter’s ambitions. Besides his own family striking his dreams down, he also blames his plight on society, saying, “‘Cause we all tied up in a race of people that don’t know how to do nothing but moan, pray and have babies!” (II.i.87). Considering the desires and limitations Walter had in life, Walter Younger does remind the reader of Prometheus, trying his best to bring hope as bright as the fire Prometheus brought.
All in all, the names Beneatha and Prometheus provide insight to what the characters valued and symbolized their personalities effectively.

In Beneatha’s case, the name Beneatha is self-explanatory, as she often looks down upon her family, failing to realize what others do for her. As for Walter, Prometheus represents his own desires to bring a fire, hopes and dreams to his family and the constant battle between society and his family to fulfill his own dreams. Through such symbolic names representing a distinct aspect of each character, the playwright provides an array of memorable and easily understood characters in her

play.