A Raisin in the Sun: Question 1

In A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, the characters are all in a state in which they dream of better ways of living. The cramped apartment is just not enough for any of them. Walter and Beneatha Younger are both searching for a way to get out of the latent lifestyle they seem to be stuck in. Walter wants to use the insurance money as an investment in a liquor store. He wants the chance to be viewed as a real businessman in the community and not as just some chauffeur or servant. He wants to be respected; he also wants respect for his son. Walter says, "Just tell me where you want to go to school and you'll go. Just tell me, what it is you want to be, and you'll be it" (Hansberry, 502). Because Walter could not fulfill his dreams to the fullest, I believe that through his son Travis, he can accomplish his dreams. The basis of his dream is to have the opportunity to be whatever it is he wants and then have the ability to accomplish it.

Beneatha has a different approach in terms of getting out of poverty. She wants to become a doctor. Going to school at this time was a privilege especially for girls and especially for colored women. If she could achieve this degree, it would be a huge step for their family in the positive direction out of the poverty scene. She says, "I always thought it was the one concrete thing in the world that a human being could do. Fix up the sick and make them whole again" (Hansberry, 520). Bennie's dream consisted of helping others, too. She felt the most honorable and respected profession was that of a doctor. Maybe she felt that if she had this prestigious title, she may be seen as an equal in society.