Lena Younger (Mama) Character Analysis in "A Raisin in the Sun"

This mind map provides a comprehensive overview of Lena Younger (Mama), the matriarch in Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun". The character analysis is divided into several key aspects, offering insights into Mama's personality, role, and significance in the story.

Outward Appearance Mama's physical description paints a picture of a strong, mature African American woman. She is described as full-bodied with a strong face, beautiful brown eyes, and dark brown skin. Her white hair suggests her age and experience.

Highlight: Mama's physical appearance reflects her inner strength and resilience, which are crucial to her character and role in the play.

Feelings and Attitude Mama's emotional landscape is characterized by positivity and love. She is described as generally lovely and positive about everything, with a deep love for her children. Her primary goal is to keep the family together, avoiding conflicts when possible. However, this leads to tension with her son Walter. Mama's long-held dream of owning a house is a central theme in the play.

Quote: "Always want to keep the family together."

Role As the head of the Younger family, Mama serves as both grandmother and mother. Her pivotal role in holding the family together underscores the theme of family unity in the face of adversity.

Definition: Matriarch - A woman who is the head of a family or tribe.

Environment The setting of the play is crucial to understanding Mama's character. She lives in a small flat in Chicago with her family, sharing a bed with her daughter Beneatha. This cramped living situation emphasizes the family's economic struggles and Mama's dream of a better life.

Highlight: The death of Mama's husband, "Big Walter," and Walter's loss of the insurance money are significant events that shape the plot and Mama's decisions.

Behaviour Mama's actions reveal her core values and strengths. She is caring, faithful, and believes strongly in God. Her purchase of a house for Travis demonstrates her love and sacrifice for her family. Mama is also described as dominant, taking care of her plant (a symbol of her nurturing nature) and expressing disappointment in Walter's actions.

Example: Mama's care for her plant symbolizes her nurturing nature and hope for growth despite harsh conditions.

Judgement of Others The mind map includes others' perceptions of Mama, both direct and indirect. She is seen as a strong, direct woman who should rest and travel with the insurance money. Some view her as spoiling her grandson, while others recognize that she has "got through a lot," acknowledging her resilience.

Vocabulary: Resilience - The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

This character analysis of Mama in "A Raisin in the Sun" highlights her central role in the play, embodying themes of family, dreams, and the struggle for dignity in the face of racial and economic challenges. Her character serves as the moral compass and driving force behind the Younger family's pursuit of a better life.