A Raisin in the Sun- Dominate Cultures Dominating Subordinate Cultures
Summary:
The way Lorraine Hansberry uses setting, plot, and characterization proves that A Raisin in the Sun is a perfect example of dominating cultures marginalizing subordinate cultures in America during the 1950's.
A Dream Deferred
A Raisin in the Sun is a perfect example of dominating cultures marginalizing subordinate cultures in America during the 1950's. The way Lorraine Hansberry uses setting, plot, and characterization proves this point. In the 1950's African Americans were viewed a second-class citizens. The civil rights movement had not yet been put into motion but the need for a change was quite evident.
Hansberry's use of setting plays an important role in showing the major conflicts between characters and society. During the 1950's racism was a social idiosyncrasy that was not dealt with. Although Chicago was a metropolis it was not integrated and The Caucasian community marginalized the African American community by making them feel afraid and unwanted. The Younger family's apartment is a motif that drives the Younger family to change their setting. The choice between moving into a "white" community or staying in their stereotypical "black" community is a difficult one. In the "white" community hate crimes were almost certain to take place. Mr. Linder makes sure that the family knows the risks, "I am sure you people must be aware of some of the incidents which have happened in various parts of the city where colored people have moved in certain areas..."(116) he is referencing to hate crimes, in this instance fear is used to marginalize the African American culture.
The intricate (and not so intricate) characters enhance the point that there were major gaps in social communities during the 1950's. Ruth Younger is an ideal example of an African American woman in the 50's. She is the homemaker, and everyone has high standards that she can't always live up to. Beneatha is a radical, she defies the stereotype of being a woman by getting her hair cut short. Going to medical school is a way that Benetha breaks the stereotype of African Americans having a job where they would serve someone higher on the social ladder.
Walter is the quintessence of the African American male in the 1950's. All of Walter's dreams are based on money, which is in short supply due to his low paying job. Although most of Walter's dreams seem shallow he only wants what is best for the family. When Walter says "We have decided to move into our house because my father--my father--he earned it for us brick by brick. We don't want to make no trouble for nobody or fight no causes, and we will try to be good neighbors. And that's all we got to say about that. We don't want your money." (148) it shows growth and him taking charge.
Mama (Lena Younger) is the patriarch in this story. She demands that members of her family take pride and respect in themselves. To mama dreams are more important than money. She demonstrates what it is like to have her "dream deferred" for numerous years, all she wants now is a house with a garden and a back yard for Travis to play in, but is set back by hardships made by the people she loves.
The plot of A Raisin In the Sun is another important literary tool that Hansberry uses to show dominating cultures marginalizing subordinate cultures. The plot is essentially that an African American family faces racial discrimination and is unable to move into a home in a White community. They eventually move out of their apartment and realize that as a family they can overcome many obstacles. Racism is a major antagonist in this story.
In conclusion Lorraine Hansberry use of setting, plot, and characterization shows how dominating cultures marginalized subordinate cultures in America during the 1950's.
This is the complete article, containing 604 words
(approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page).
