Hansberry, Lorraine: 1930-1965

A Raisin in the Sun, 1959 - Before Reading

Before reading the book it helps to understand a few key contexts and ideas that shape the story and make it much richer.
- 1. Historical Context: Segregation & Housing Discrimination
  The play is set in 1950s Chicago, a time when African American families faced systemic racism—especially in housing.
  - Practices like deed restrictions prevented Black families from buying homes in white neighborhoods.
  - This connects directly to the Younger family’s central conflict; they wanted to move into a better neighborhood.
  Knowing this makes the family’s struggle feel much bigger than just a personal decision—it’s about civil rights and dignity.
- 2. The Author’s Background
  Lorraine Hansberry was inspired by her own family’s experience fighting housing segregation in Chicago.
  - Her family challenged discriminatory housing in court.
  - This gives the play a strong autobiographical and political edge.
- 3. The Importance of Money (and Dreams)
  The plot revolves around a $10,000 life insurance check.
  Each character has a different dream for it:
  - Walter: financial independence and business success
  - Beneatha: education and self-discovery
  - Mama: stability and a home
  The money symbolizes hope, conflict, and values.
- 4. The Title’s Meaning
  The title comes from a poem by Langston Hughes called Harlem (A Dream Deferred).
  - “What happens to a dream deferred?
  Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?”
  Keep this question in mind while reading—the play explores what happens when dreams are delayed or denied.
- 5. Themes to Watch For
  As you read, pay attention to:
  - Dreams vs. reality
  - Racial identity and pride
  - Gender roles (especially Beneatha vs. traditional expectations)
  - Family and generational conflict
  - Assimilation vs. cultural identity
- 6. Why It Was Groundbreaking
  First Broadway play written by a Black woman.
  First play with a Black director and largely Black cast to reach mainstream success.
  brought everyday Black family life to a wide audience.
- Don’t just follow the plot—pay attention to:
  - Dialogue (it’s very realistic and layered)
  - Characters’ dreams and how they clash
  - Symbolism (money, the house, Beneatha’s hair, etc.)