Essay Outline for Conflict in Lorraine Hansberrys A Raisin in the Sun :: Raisin Sun essays

Conflicts in A Raisin in the Sun Essay Outline I. Conflicts in the Play - There are many types of conflict evident in this play. Some are as follows A. Man vs. Man - mommy is the matriarch of the family, and she is precise much in control of her childrens lives. She is driven by a strong sense of pride and a strong faith in God. Her ideas conflict with triple other characters 1. Walter - His dreams of owning a licquor store conflict religiously with mamas value system. The conflict mingled with Mama and Walter is amplified by the fact that it is Mamas apartment in which the family lives and Walter is unable/ backward to make decisions because Mama is so domineering. Ironically, it is the one decision that she eventually lets Walter make which nearly destroys the family. 2. Beneatha - Mama is angered and confused by Beneathas views on religion. 3. Ruth - Mama is unable to accept the fact that Ruth might find it necessary to have an abortion. B. Man vs. Nature 1. Living Conditi ons - five people in a small apartment 2. The neighborhood - ghetto-itis 3. Economic Conditions 4. Job Dissatisfaction 5. Societys Racism III. Individual Dreams Vs. Family Responsibilities - A central conflict in the play arises when there is disparity between the individuals dreams and his/her familial responsibilities A. Walters desire to own a liquor store B. Beneathas dream to be a doctor IV. Character Contrasts A. George Vs. Asagai - George is trying to deny his heritage. His family has prospered in the States and he sees no need to celebrate his African heritage. He illustrates the blandness and shallowness of a life rooted in the quest for wealth and status. Asagai contrasts with George. He is an idealist. He is intelligent, perceptive, and dedicated to helping his country in its quest for liberation. These two men embody the two forces that operate on and within the family materialism and idealism. B. Mama vs. Walter - Mamas desires for the family contrast with W alters. Mama wants to use the insurance money to buy a house, a symbol of stability. Walter would rather spend the money on a tall risk investment. Mama represents the wiser generation. V. Important Props A. The plant - This is representative of Mamas ability to endure despite harsh surroundings, and her tenacity in keeping her dream alive.