Supporting Characters

In addition to the Younger family, A Raisin in the Sun features several supporting characters who play crucial roles in the story's development:

George Murchison:

• Wealthy and good-looking college student
• Described as shallow and proud of his knowledge
• Takes Beneatha to nice places, but their relationship is complex

Joseph Asagai:

• Nigerian student studying in Canada
• Charming and intellectually stimulating to Beneatha
• Introduces her to African culture and ideas

Vocabulary: "Alaiyo" - Asagai's nickname for Beneatha, meaning "One for Whom Bread-Food-is Not Enough" in Yoruba.

Karl Lindner:

• The only white character in the play
• Represents the white majority and systemic racism
• Described as shy, timid, and friendly on the surface, but insults the Younger family

Highlight: Lindner's character serves as a personification of the racial segregation and discrimination prevalent in 1950s America.

Bobo:

• Walter's friend
• Involved in Walter's business aspirations

Willy:

• Another of Walter's associates
• Runs off with Walter's money, crushing his dreams of business ownership

Mrs. Johnson:

• The Younger family's neighbor and friend
• Enthusiastic and generally happy
• Described as a squeaky, wide-eyed lady with no particular age
• Often critical and ironic in her interactions

These supporting characters enrich the A Raisin in the Sun Analysis by providing different perspectives and catalysts for the main characters' development. They represent various aspects of society, from the promise of cultural reconnection (Asagai) to the harsh realities of racial discrimination (Lindner), adding depth to the play's exploration of the African American experience in mid-20th century America.

The interactions between these characters and the Younger family members drive the plot forward and highlight the various challenges and opportunities faced by African Americans during this pivotal time in history. Through these relationships, Hansberry crafts a nuanced portrayal of community, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream in the face of systemic obstacles.

Character Profiles

A Raisin in the Sun features a diverse cast of characters, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the Younger family's story. Let's explore the main characters and their defining traits:

Ruth Younger:

• 30 years old, married to Walter Lee Younger for 11 years
• Mother to Travis Younger
• Described as pretty but showing signs of disappointment
• Patient and good-natured, but prone to complaining and mocking others
• Pregnant and considering termination
• Loves her husband despite their struggles

Highlight: Ruth's character embodies the challenges faced by many African American women of the era, balancing family responsibilities with personal aspirations.

Walter Lee Younger:

• 35 years old, married to Ruth
• Father to Travis and brother to Beneatha
• Works as a chauffeur
• Characterized by intense personality and erratic speech
• Ambitious but frustrated, believing money is the key to a better life
• Struggles with alcohol and lacks higher education

Example: Walter's desire to invest in a store represents his dream of economic independence and success in a society that often limits opportunities for African Americans.

Beneatha Younger (Bennie):

• 20 years old, Walter's sister
• Aspiring doctor with a strong interest in education and culture
• Questions traditional beliefs, including religion
• Explores her African heritage and identity

Vocabulary: "Permeated" in the context of Beneatha's speech indicates that her education has thoroughly influenced her way of speaking.

Lena Younger (Mama):

• In her early sixties, widowed
• Described as full-bodied, beautiful, and strong
• Deeply religious and the moral center of the family
• Recipient of an insurance payout that drives much of the plot

Quote: "Seem like God didn't see fit to give the black man nothing but dreams- but He did give us children to make them dreams worth while." - Big Walter (Mama's late husband)

Travis Younger:

• 11 or 12 years old
• Described as sturdy, handsome, and thin
• Sleeps in the living room and is spoiled by Mama

These character descriptions provide insight into the family dynamics and individual struggles that form the core of the A Raisin in the Sun characterization Walter and other family members, setting the stage for the conflicts and growth that will occur throughout the play.