Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

Allow me to present an in-depth analysis of Lorraine Hansberry's masterpiece, "A Raisin in the Sun." This work of literature is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged play that explores the lives and struggles of an African American family living in Chicago's South Side in the 1950s. The story follows the Younger family as they navigate through the challenges of poverty, racism, and discrimination while trying to achieve their dreams and aspirations.

Act I - Scene I:

The play opens with the Younger family living in a cramped and run-down apartment. The family consists of Lena Younger (Mama), her son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, their son Travis, and Beneatha, Walter's sister. Mama receives a $10,000 life insurance check after her husband's death, and the family is excited about the possibilities that the money could bring. Walter wants to open a liquor store with his friends, while Beneatha wants to use the money to go to medical school.

Act I - Scene II:

Walter meets with his friends to discuss their plan to invest in the liquor store, but they need $10,000 to get started. Walter asks Mama for the money, but she refuses to give it to him, saying that she has plans for the money.

Act II - Scene I:

Mama uses some of the insurance money to buy a house in a white neighborhood. However, the family faces opposition from their new neighbors, who do not want black people living in their community. Walter is disappointed that Mama did not give him the money for the liquor store, and he becomes distant from his family.

Act II - Scene II:

Beneatha becomes interested in African culture and starts dating Joseph Asagai, a Nigerian student. Asagai encourages Beneatha to embrace her heritage and values, and he offers to take her to Nigeria with him.

Act III - Scene I:

Walter's friend Willy Harris runs off with the money that Walter gave him to invest in the liquor store. Walter is devastated and ashamed, but Mama encourages him to be strong and to keep fighting for his dreams.

Act III - Scene II:

Beneatha receives news that she did not get into medical school. She becomes disillusioned and loses faith in her dreams. However, Asagai tells her that she can still make a difference in the world, and he encourages her to come to Nigeria with him.

Act III - Scene III:

Mama gives Walter the rest of the insurance money, and he uses it to put a down payment on a new house. The family is overjoyed and united once again, with Walter finally realizing the importance of family and dreams.

In conclusion, "A Raisin in the Sun" is a powerful and timeless work of literature that explores the themes of family, dreams, and the American Dream. This play portrays the struggles and hardships of African American families during the Civil Rights Movement and highlights the importance of unity, perseverance, and hope. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of race relations and family dynamics in America.