General Information and Context

A Raisin in the Sun is a groundbreaking play written by Lorraine Hansberry between 1950-1958. The drama is set in a Chicago ghetto during the period between the end of World War II and the late 1950s, a time of significant racial tension and segregation in the United States.

Quote: "One of a handful of great American plays - it belongs in the inner circle, along with Death of a Salesman, Long Day's Journey Into Night, and The Glass Menagerie." - The Washington Post

The play explores several crucial themes:

1. The diverse dreams and hopes of African American individuals
2. Racism experienced on a personal level
3. The lived experiences of the African American population
4. The historical context of segregation in the USA

Highlight: The drama provides a poignant and intimate look at the effects of systemic racism and economic hardship on a single family, serving as a microcosm for broader societal issues.

Walter Lee Younger: Character Analysis

Walter Lee Younger is a complex and pivotal character in A Raisin in the Sun. His characterization provides insight into the struggles and aspirations of African American men in mid-20th century America.

Key traits and information about Walter:

1. Age: Mid-thirties
2. Occupation: Chauffeur
3. Worldview: Believes that money is the solution to all problems
4. Ambition: Desires to become wealthy and improve his family's life
5. Relationships: Often argumentative with family members
6. Role Model: Admires Charlie Etkins, who successfully opened a store

Example: Walter's fixation on opening a liquor store as a path to wealth demonstrates his desperation to escape his current circumstances and achieve the American Dream.

Welche Charakterzüge hat Walter in A Raisin in the Sun? (What character traits does Walter have in A Raisin in the Sun?)

• Impulsive
• Short-tempered
• Unreliable
• Caring (despite his outward behavior)
• Distant
• Insistent
• Indolent
• Proud

Highlight: Walter's character arc is central to the play's exploration of how systemic racism and economic hardship can warp an individual's aspirations and relationships.

Structure and Acts of the Play

A Raisin in the Sun is structured in a traditional three-act format, with each act further divided into scenes. This structure helps to organize the plot and character development throughout the play.

The play is divided as follows:

1. Act I, Scene 1: Exposition

   • Introduces the characters and their living situation
   • Establishes the central conflict of the insurance check

2. Act I, Scene 2: Rising Action

   • Develops characters' dreams and aspirations
   • Introduces tension between family members

3. Act II, Scene 1: Rising Action

   • Escalates conflicts within the family
   • Introduces external challenges (e.g., Karl Lindner's offer)

4. Act II, Scene 2: Climax

   • Reaches the height of tension
   • Major decisions are made

5. Act II, Scene 3: Falling Action

   • Deals with the consequences of previous actions
   • Begins to resolve conflicts

6. Act III: Resolution

   • Concludes the main conflicts
   • Shows character growth and final decisions

Highlight: This structure allows Hansberry to gradually build tension and explore the characters' development as they face increasingly difficult challenges and decisions.

Example: The climax in Act II, Scene 2 often revolves around Walter's decision regarding the insurance money, which has far-reaching consequences for the entire family.

Understanding this structure is crucial for analyzing the play's themes and character arcs, making it an essential aspect of any A Raisin in the Sun Summary Act 3 or overall analysis of the work.