Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. It is a story of a Black family’s struggles to make their dreams come true despite facing prejudice, poverty, and other obstacles. One of the most endearing aspects of the play is its relatable characters. Hansberry expertly uses characterization to bring the characters to life and make them feel like real people. In this article, we will explore the characterization used in A Raisin in the Sun and how it has stood the test of time.

The Younger Family

The Younger family is the focus of A Raisin in the Sun. The family consists of five members: Walter Lee, Lena, Beneatha, Ruth, and Travis. Each character has their own dreams and ambitions that drive the story forward. Hansberry uses characterization to give each character a distinct personality. Walter Lee is a determined, ambitious man who strives to provide for his family. Lena is a wise and nurturing mother who wants to ensure her family’s stability. Beneatha is an independent thinker who dreams of becoming a doctor. Ruth is a supportive wife and mother who wants to raise a happy family. Travis is a young boy who is eager to help his family. Despite their differences, the characters are united by their shared love for one another.

Walter Lee

Walter Lee is the head of the Younger family and is the most developed character in the play. He is a proud and ambitious man who strives to provide for his family. He is frustrated with the limitations of his job and poverty. He is willing to do whatever it takes to make a better life for his family, even if it means taking risks. Walter Lee is a complex character whose dreams are constantly tested by society’s expectations and racism. Hansberry’s characterization of Walter Lee is so strong that audiences can’t help but sympathize with him.

Lena

Lena is the matriarch of the Younger family and is a wise and nurturing mother. She is the voice of reason in the family and often serves as a mediator between her children. She is a strong believer in the power of education and is determined to ensure her children have a better life. Despite her tough exterior, Lena has a deep love for her family and wants to do what’s best for them. Hansberry uses characterization to bring Lena to life and show her as a loving and caring mother.

Beneatha

Beneatha is the daughter of Lena and Walter Lee. She is an independent thinker who is determined to make her own way in the world. She is passionate about her education and dreams of becoming a doctor. Beneatha is a strong-willed young woman who is not afraid to express her opinions. She stands up for what she believes in and refuses to be held back by society’s expectations. Hansberry’s characterization of Beneatha shows her as a complex and determined young woman who is determined to make her dreams come true.

Ruth

Ruth is Walter Lee’s wife and the mother of Travis. She is a supportive wife and mother who wants to raise a happy family. Ruth is a hardworking woman who is willing to do whatever it takes to provide for her family. Despite her struggles, she remains optimistic and determined to make the best of her situation. Hansberry’s characterization of Ruth shows her as a strong and resilient woman who is determined to make a better life for her family.

Travis

Travis is the youngest member of the Younger family. He is a young boy who wants to help his family. He is a curious child who is eager to learn and explore the world. Despite the family’s poverty, Travis remains optimistic and hopeful for the future. Hansberry’s characterization of Travis shows him as an innocent and hopeful child who is determined to make the best of his situation.

Conclusion

Characterization is an essential part of any story, and Hansberry’s use of characterization in A Raisin in the Sun is masterful. Each character is unique and complex, and they all have their own dreams and ambitions. The characters are relatable and their struggles are timeless. Despite being written over 60 years ago, the characters in A Raisin in the Sun still feel real and relevant today. Hansberry’s characterization is one of the reasons the play has stood the test of time.