A Raisin in the Sun Free Essay Example, 1000 words

A Raisin in the Sun by Hansberry: An Analysis of Themes Explored Outline Thesis: An analysis of the play A Raisin in the Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry reveals that the major themes explored in the work include the development of an individuals’ struggle against society, racial discrimination and the significance of dreams in a person’s life. I. The play explicates the theme of how individuals must struggle against social afflictions in order to survive. A. Each of the members of the Youngers’ family must fight against the problems of poverty and deprivation. B. Walter must struggle to fulfill his social obligations of providing for the family C. Beneatha must face the tribulations posed by a patriarchal society. D. Ruth faces the challenges of poverty which renders them unable to have another child. II. Another important theme explored is that of racial discrimination and class distinction. A. When the Youngers decide to move into a neighborhood occupied primarily by white people, they are requested to stay away and are offered a decent sum of money to do so. B. The play illustrates not just individual and historic racism, but also institutional racism. C.We will write a custom essay sample on A Raisin in the Sun or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now The prevalence of class division, particularly within the African American community is demonstrated mainly through the relationship between Beneatha and her well-to-do boyfriend, George Murchinson. D. Beneatha is not wholly accepted by the Murchinsons as she hails from a poor family. III. The role of dreams and aspirations in an individual’s life is also very lucidly depicted. A. Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor, while Walter wishes for wealth and money. B. The destructive power of dreams, when one becomes obsessed by them is also revealed through Walter’s relentless quest for money, regardless of the moral implications of his acts. C. Hence, the matter of whether the end justifies the means is raised. D. In the end, however, the Youngers decide that the foremost objective is to do what is in the best interests of the whole family. A Raisin in the Sun by Hansberry: An Analysis of Themes Explored â€Å"Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it. It enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the deserts that our lives have already become. † These words, by C. S. Lewis aptly encompass the significance of literature and its study. Literature, be it prose, poetry, plays, fragments or anecdotes, has a way of deepening lives through its depiction of characters, themes and symbols, quite unique yet human and relevant.