Dreams and Their Impact in "A Raisin in the Sun"

Introduction

In Lorraine Hansberry's timeless classic, "A Raisin in the Sun," the dreams of the Younger family members serve as a central theme, echoing the sentiments of Langston Hughes' poem about deferred dreams. Within the confines of their modest home, Lena, Walter, Ruth, and Beneatha each harbor their own aspirations, revealing a spectrum of desires that reflect the complexities of human nature and societal pressures. This essay explores the multifaceted dreams of the Younger family and how they intertwine, clash, and ultimately shape the course of their lives.

Lena's Simple Dreams of Home and Education

At the heart of the Younger family is Lena Younger, the matriarch who has spent her life caring for her children after the death of her husband. Lena's dreams are rooted in simplicity and the well-being of her family. Upon receiving her husband's insurance check, she makes two significant decisions: to purchase a home in Clybourne Park for $3,500 and to set aside money for her daughter, Beneatha's, medical school education.

Get quality help now

writer-marian

Verified writer

Proficient in: Free Essays

4.8 (309)

“ Writer-marian did a very good job with my paper, she got straight to the point, she made it clear and organized ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

Lena's dreams are grounded in providing her family with a stable and comfortable life (Hansberry 1.1).

While Lena's dreams may seem modest, they hold profound significance. Her desire for homeownership represents a tangible symbol of stability and progress for her family, a sanctuary from the cramped, oppressive apartment they currently reside in. Furthermore, her commitment to funding Beneatha's medical education reflects her belief in the power of education as a means of achieving a better future. Lena's dreams are, in essence, a reflection of her selfless love for her children and her unwavering determination to see them succeed.

Walter's Ambitious Yet Troubled Dreams

In stark contrast to Lena's simple dreams, Walter Younger, Lena's son and the head of the household, harbors grand ambitions that revolve around financial success and societal advancement. Walter's dream is to invest his mother's insurance money in a liquor store, a venture he believes will lift his family out of poverty and provide a better life for his son, Travis. His dream is driven by a desire to break free from the constraints of their current circumstances and to achieve a sense of pride and independence (Hansberry 1.1).

However, the clash between Walter's dreams and those of his family members creates tension within the household. Walter's frustration and disappointment with his mother's decision to purchase a house with the insurance money, coupled with the betrayal he faces from his business associates, lead to a devastating realization. Walter's dream not only crumbles but also damages the dreams of others, including Beneatha's ambition to become a doctor and Ruth's hope for financial stability. The consequences of his actions serve as a cautionary tale about the destructive potential of singular, selfish dreams.

Beneatha's Resilient Pursuit of Her Dream

Beneatha Younger, the intellectually driven daughter of Lena, aspires to become a doctor. Her dream of pursuing a medical career symbolizes her determination to defy societal expectations and stereotypes regarding women of color. However, her dream faces a setback when Walter fails to set aside money for her medical school education (Hansberry 1.1).

Despite the disappointment, Beneatha's character exemplifies resilience. She refuses to let her dream wither away, thanks in part to the encouragement of her friend Asagai, who reminds her that dreams should not be solely defined by monetary constraints. Asagai's wisdom inspires Beneatha to rekindle her aspirations and, in a transformative journey, she decides to go to Nigeria to practice medicine. Beneatha's story underscores the importance of perseverance and the belief that dreams can be pursued in unconventional ways.

Conclusion

In "A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry, dreams are a driving force, shaping the lives of the Younger family members and embodying their hopes, struggles, and aspirations. Lena's dreams represent the foundation of family and education, Walter's dreams reveal the allure and pitfalls of financial ambition, and Beneatha's dreams embody resilience and determination. Ultimately, the play serves as a profound exploration of how dreams, whether deferred or realized, can profoundly impact individuals and families, offering valuable insights into the complexities of human desires and the enduring power of hope. Hansberry masterfully illustrates that, even in the face of adversity, dreams can persist and flourish, providing a beacon of hope for the future.