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Lorraine Hansberry, through her renowned play "A Raisin in the Sun," skillfully captures the evolution of black consciousness by introducing readers to the Younger family. Set against the backdrop of a poor black neighborhood in 1950s Southside Chicago, the Younger family grapples with racial discrimination and the pursuit of their true dreams. Within the narrative, Hansberry employs the concept of an anti-hero alongside a clear protagonist, creating a nuanced exploration of flawed characters who undergo redemption through heroic acts or decisions.
Walter Lee Younger, burdened by the weight of his deferred dreams, embarks on a journey that positions him as the anti-hero of the play.
Initially, the inability to realize his aspirations transforms Walter into a character marred by greed, selfishness, and cowardice. His misguided decisions inflict harm upon those who care for him, revealing the destructive consequences of deferred dreams.
Walter's obsession with material wealth becomes evident during discussions about the $10,000 insurance money the family receives.
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“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Disregarding Beneatha's ambition to become a doctor, Walter dismisses her dreams, stating, "Ain’t many girls who decide to be a doctor" (36). His singular focus on using the insurance money to open a liquor store reflects a selfish pursuit, jeopardizing the well-being of the entire family.
Ruth, recognizing Walter's dreams as impractical, consistently urges him to focus on reality, telling him to "eat your eggs" (34) whenever he indulges in fanciful aspirations. When faced with the news of Ruth's pregnancy and her contemplation of abortion, Walter's cowardice manifests as he avoids the conversation and walks out (75), missing an opportunity to display strength and responsibility.
Despite the flaws that define Walter's character, his intentions remain rooted in a genuine desire for his family's happiness.
This complexity engenders sympathy from readers, as they witness the internal struggle that propels Walter into a series of unfortunate decisions. Ultimately, it is Walter's capacity for redemption that renders him a compelling anti-hero.
Walter's descent into financial ruin, including the loss of Beneatha's school tuition, prompts a critical juncture in his character arc. Rather than succumbing to despair, Walter attempts to salvage his pride and rectify his past mistakes. Unfortunately, his resolution takes a darker turn as he contemplates selling the family home to a white buyer.
Mama's disappointment serves as a wake-up call for Walter, leading him to a pivotal realization. Confronted by his son Travis, Walter understands the importance of preserving pride and racial identity over the allure of financial gain. This newfound insight prompts him to reject Mr. Lindner's tempting offer and assertively declare their decision to move into the house they rightfully earned.
Walter's transformation from a blinded seeker of wealth to a man who prioritizes pride is evident in his declaration: "And we have decided to move into our house because—my father—he earned it for us brick by brick…and that’s all we got to say about that. We don’t want your money" (148). In this moment, Walter emerges as the family's true patriarch, standing against the pervasive racial prejudices of the time.
In conclusion, Lorraine Hansberry crafts a powerful narrative in "A Raisin in the Sun," using Walter Lee Younger as an anti-hero whose journey mirrors the revolution of black consciousness. Walter's initial flaws, rooted in greed and self-centeredness, make him a relatable yet flawed character. However, it is through his redemption, fueled by a sacrificial act and a newfound understanding of pride, that Walter secures his place as the man of the family. Hansberry’s portrayal of Walter’s evolution underscores the broader theme of racial and personal identity, contributing to the enduring relevance of the play.
Transformation of Walter Lee Younger in A Raisin in the Sun. (2017, Feb 10). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/walter-lee-younger-selfish-to-selfless-essay
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