One of the major themes presented in A Raisin in the Sun is the theme of searching for our own individual vision of the “American Dream.” What are the “dreams deferred” by Mama, Ruth, Beneatha, and Walter, and what commentary do you think Hansberry is making on the concept of the “American Dream” through her representation of the dreams of these characters?
The correct answer and explanation is :
In A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry explores the idea of the “American Dream” through the personal and collective dreams of the Younger family. Each character has their own vision of success, which reflects both their aspirations and the barriers they face as African Americans in a society fraught with racism and economic inequality. The dreams of Mama, Ruth, Beneatha, and Walter are all, in different ways, “deferred” or denied, and Hansberry uses this to critique the traditional American Dream.
Mama’s dream is to buy a house and provide a better life for her family, particularly for her children. This dream represents her desire for stability and dignity, but it is deferred due to economic hardships and the racial discrimination that makes homeownership difficult for African Americans. Ruth, on the other hand, dreams of peace and harmony within her family. Her deferred dream is more about emotional fulfillment, as she struggles with the stress of daily life, the burden of motherhood, and the lack of support from her husband, Walter.
Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor, a dream that is met with skepticism from her family, especially Walter, who believes that the money should be used for a more practical venture. Beneatha’s deferred dream also highlights the intersection of gender and race in the pursuit of success—her desire for a professional career is doubly hindered by her gender and by the expectations placed on her as a Black woman. Finally, Walter’s dream is to open a liquor store and achieve financial success, which he believes will bring him respect and the ability to provide for his family. His dream is deferred when the money he invested is lost, but his character ultimately learns that his true dream is rooted in family and dignity.
Hansberry critiques the concept of the “American Dream” by showing how it is often inaccessible for marginalized communities. The dreams of the Younger family members are continually thwarted by systemic racism, economic inequality, and societal pressures. Through their struggles, Hansberry illustrates the harsh reality that, for many people, the American Dream is an elusive ideal rather than an attainable reality.