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A Raisin In The Sun American Dream

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Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, derived from “Harlem,” a poem written by Langston Hughes. Both the play and poem explore the theme of deferred dreams. A raisin symbolizes one’s dreams, while the sun represents time; as more time is spent in the sun, the longer the dream is deferred. The theme signifies that not everyone is able to accomplish their version of the American Dream. Also, feminism is a key theme exhibited through the women of the Younger family. Hansberry was born in Chicago on May 19, 1930. Her writings, especially A Raisin in the Sun, show that Hansberry writes from events she experienced early in life. During her childhood, her parents fought for equality to live in a white neighborhood; the Younger family does the same thing after Lena buys a house in Clybourne Park, a neighborhood in which no African American families lived. Youngers, both male and female, face a society that is conformist as well as …show more content…

For Mama, she wants to provide for her family and reduce their struggles; the new house represents her dream. Similarly to Lena, Ruth wants to have a better life with Travis and Walter; the house also symbolizes this greater life for her and her family. Travis is young, and aspires to be a bus driver when he grows older. New to the time period, Beneatha dreams to change lives and become a doctor; not just marry a man like George for the money and security. Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, can teach readers many things through its morals and themes. Feminism is an important theme that helps to empower women. Dreams also display a crucial lesson for the reader; always go after one’s dreams no matter how small the window. Readers also learn that discrimination may prevent one from exploring their dreams, but they must overcome that obstacle. A Raisin in the Sun explores how opportunities come to those who do not defer their dreams for too

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