A Raisin In The Sun Mama's Plant Analysis

There are many symbols in A Raisin in the Sun worth describing, but one that particularly stands out is Mama’s plant. It is old and barely a substantial piece of nature, yet it makes many vital appearances in the play. The small plant seems to personify Mama’s stubborn nature in its intent on survival despite its close to death appearance. It also represents Mama’s dream that seems close to being crushed, yet never dies. As a whole, the plant is an extension of Mama’s character and an important symbol in the play. In the beginning of the play when the plant makes its debut, it is described as “a feeble little plant growing doggedly” (Hansberry 23). It is not a beautiful plant, but it could win a prize for its tenacity. Its appearance may not match Mama’s, but its will to survive most definitely does. Mama is “full-bodied and strong” (23) with an air similar to that of “the noble bearing of the women of the Hereros of Southwest Africa” (23), which does not parallel the appearance her beloved plant. Not only is her physique sturdy, but she also shows herself to be an unyielding person in both her opinions and actions. An example of her steadfastness in her beliefs is when Beneatha is talking about her own atheist beliefs. Mama’s response to Beneatha is a definite show of her opinion, as she “slaps her powerfully across the face” (35). To her, the small apartment is still her house and “in [her] house there is still God” (35) and judging by her response to Beneatha’s opinions, Mama will go to any lengths to defend her own beliefs. Beneatha has already shown that her

Mama’s dream is one that begins to blossom after being weathered down by time, circumstance, and lack of hope. Despite all of this, it finally thrives, even if it isn’t completely ready. There may be a few more bumps in the road, but Mama’s dream is ready to be