A Raisin In The Sun Literary Devices

A Raisin in the Sun, written by Lorraine Hansberry, highlights the gift given to Mama and how it divides the family as a whole. Using different literary devices, Hansberry deliberately displays how the 10,000 dollars given to Mama becomes a burden on the whole family. After the passing of Mama’s husband, Walter, she is given a check for $10,000. Her family, although they are heartbroken for Mama, demand that she give the money to them so they can achieve their dreams. Walter, specifically, wants the money so he can start his own liquor store with his companions, Willy and BoBo. His selfishness and ambition creates a divide between his wife, sister and Mama. Ruth, his wife, already knows that his plan is just another false scheme that will hurt

Mama, knowing their situation, is in a predicament. She has to choose between her son and daughter and her daughter-in-law over money. Although the money is a gift, it is also a great burden on the family. Money is a symbol of greed and power, much like in today’s world. Ambition is fueled by selfishness and greed for a greater purpose. Walter embodies these traits, making it hard for him to realize his own faults in the process. Money also symbolizes the cracks in their relationships with one another. Even though they are family, they continually try and fight for something that was not theirs in the first place. Mama is being attacked from all corners because of some money. Mama, however, came to the decision that she would split the money. She cares for her family much like Walter, but she is selfless unlike him. She plans to give around $6,000 to Walter and put the rest down on a house. She tells Walter to split it with his sister for her medical school and the rest he can invest. Her kindness and generosity shows her selflessness when it comes to her family. The house is for her family to grow in, and she wants her daughter and son’s family to