People of color normally endure high levels of stresses that are caused by judgment and impairment from people of other races. This normally has a negative impact on them because in some circumstances they deter them from achieving their dreams. The play “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry revolves around racial discrimination that black families go through and how it hinders them from achieving their dreams. The author uses the family of Walter, which has high expectations, but their dreams are killed by either racial discrimination or setting unrealistic goals. For instance, after the death of the family’s breadwinner, the only hope the family has is the cheque of $10,000 which the head of the family had kept before he died as his life insurance. Different members of the family have different thoughts on how to spend the money. This results in a conflict which makes no member of the family benefit from the money. In this paper, we are going to focus on the impact that having unrealistic dreams and the presence of racial discrimination had on the young black family.
The play begins at the home of a young black family in Chicago which is eagerly waiting for a cheque. The anticipation can be seen when Walter wakes up and the first thing he tells his wife is that the ‘check is coming today’ (I. i. 489). The head of the black family having passed away, his life insurance cheque is the only hope that the family has after having escaped from the South. For the wife and mother of the children, the cheque acts as a consolation for losing the man she had loved and lived with for many years. For the adults in the family, the cheque means an opportunity that they have to fulfill their dreams. The youngsters, on the other hand, live in a small apartment with very poor conditions, which explains why they also invested all their hopes in the piece of paper. All the members of the house have a dream that once they acquire the cheque, their lives will change somehow.
Money is most definitely a very significant issue in the play that everyone dreams of making, spending, squandering, or having it. This is because the economy is undergoing numerous challenges according to the play’s setting. The dream to live a better life made the youngsters always talk of how they will make money, which sounded vague to influential fellows.
Economic Hardships and Dreams
The play is set during a time when economic hardships were prevalent, especially among African American families. The Great Migration, where many African Americans moved from the rural South to the urban North, seeking better opportunities, is a backdrop for the play. However, upon arriving in the North, many found that economic opportunities were still limited due to systemic racism and discrimination. This historical context is crucial as it adds another layer to the family’s struggles and aspirations.
Theories of Racial Discrimination
To understand the impact of racial discrimination in “A Raisin in the Sun,” it is essential to explore various academic theories. One such theory is Critical Race Theory (CRT), which examines society and culture as they relate to race, law, and power. CRT posits that racism is engrained in the fabric and system of the American society. The play illustrates this through the Younger family’s experiences, where their dreams are deferred and often crushed due to racial barriers. The resistance they face when attempting to move into a predominantly white neighborhood exemplifies the systemic nature of racism.
Psychological Impact of Discrimination
Another theory relevant to the play is the concept of Stereotype Threat, introduced by Claude Steele and Joshua Aronson. This theory suggests that individuals who belong to negatively stereotyped groups can experience anxiety and concern that they will be judged or treated according to those stereotypes. This anxiety can impact their performance and aspirations. In the play, Walter’s frustration and despair can be seen as a manifestation of the stereotype threat, where he feels constrained and judged by the societal limitations placed on black men.
Unrealistic Dreams and Aspirations
The theme of unrealistic dreams is also central to the play. Walter’s dream of investing in a liquor store as a means to escape poverty and achieve financial independence is fraught with unrealistic expectations. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Walter’s focus on achieving self-actualization is hindered by his inability to satisfy more basic needs such as economic stability and security. His unrealistic dreams lead to tension and conflict within the family, highlighting the importance of setting achievable goals.
Social and Cultural Capital
Pierre Bourdieu’s theories on social and cultural capital are also applicable here. Social capital refers to the networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively. Cultural capital, on the other hand, includes non-financial social assets such as education, intellect, style of speech, and appearance. The Younger family’s lack of social and cultural capital in a predominantly white society limits their opportunities and reinforces the cycle of poverty and discrimination.
Impact on Family Dynamics
The strain of racial discrimination and unfulfilled dreams profoundly impacts the family dynamics in the play. Walter’s increasing desperation leads to a sense of emasculation, affecting his relationship with his wife, Ruth, and his mother, Lena. The pressure to fulfill the American Dream causes friction and disillusionment within the family, as each member grapples with their own aspirations and the harsh reality of their circumstances.
Resilience and Resistance
Despite the numerous challenges, the play also highlights the themes of resilience and resistance. The family’s determination to move into the white neighborhood, despite the overt racism they encounter, showcases their resilience. This act of defiance against racial segregation is a powerful statement of resistance and hope for a better future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “A Raisin in the Sun” provides a poignant exploration of the impact of racial discrimination and unrealistic dreams on a young black family. The play delves into the psychological, social, and economic challenges faced by the Younger family, illustrating how systemic racism and unachievable aspirations can hinder their pursuit of the American Dream. By examining various academic theories such as Critical Race Theory, Stereotype Threat, and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of the family’s struggles. Despite the adversities, the play also highlights the family’s resilience and determination to strive for a better future, making it a timeless and relevant piece of literature.