"A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry - Comparative Essay

When one hits rock bottom, there's nowhere to go but up. This idea is reflected by two specific characters that have experienced this first-hand, and wish to follow this despair with success. However, although both Walter and Mama of Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun" hope to improve the life of their family as a whole, one has a calmer, more optimistic approach than the other. This produces certain outcomes that reflect each unique character.

Regalo de navidad para mi mama - versión 2

1st edition cover

A Raisin in the Sun (2008 film)

Walter has a hastier advance toward the dream of a happier and wealthier lifestyle than his mother does. His personality exhibits a hot temper and a burning desire for gratifying results, so he immediately works toward the intended goal. He does not wait for opportunities to arise to take action. Instead, he plans well ahead the necessary steps. Walter expresses this by thinking of new ways to make money. Specifically, he hoped that by investing in a liquor store, he would be able to make enough money to help his African-American family's social status, which in turn would make a happier life. He believed money was the sole source of happiness, because he could buy luxurious items and be respected by others for the sum of his income. However, though he instantly works on his aims, he is upset easily at the first sign of malfunction. For example, when he was told that the money he put down for his liquor store was stolen, he grew almost hysterical and dramatically considered himself a failure. He has weak flesh in a sense that when he receives wounds, he does not recover from them quickly, and he can't brush them off. Still, from the push of Mama near the end of the play, he learned to return to his dream...