How Does Alice Walker Use Symbols In A Raisin In The Sun

Another way in which Hansberry and Walker represent character’s lifestyle choices is through the use of symbols. For example, in A Raisin In The Sun, George Murchison’s American style clothing is very telling of his assimilationist way of life. Furthermore, the stage directions used to describe how Walter “... [scrutinizes George’s] carefully casual tweed sports jacket…”, worn with a “…cashmere V-neck sweater over soft eyelet shirt and tie, and soft slacks, finished off with white buckskin shoes…” prove how his outfit follows the style of an American his age rather than wearing mainly American garb with touches of African culture (529). In the case of most audience members, the stage directions recounting Walter’s interpretation of George’s clothing affect

This generous act on Joseph’s part makes the reader see him as a better relationship choice than George who does not treat Beneatha well or bring her presents. Additionally, this widens the gap between Beneatha and the rest of her family as she is the only member who truly appreciates the African style enough to wear a Nigerian robe. Alice Walker uses the same method of symbolism in her short story “Everyday Use” as well. Assimilation is skillfully represented through “…the burn scars down Maggie’s arms and legs…” as she “…stand[s] hopelessly in corners…” since it represents the oppression and physical/emotional pain one who assimilates faces (237). However, Mama notices her daughter and realizes her pain in combination with her humble and ashamed attitude, which verifies the fact that the two are able to become closer as a result of this. Also, the mentioning of Maggie’s burn scars that she has had since she was caught in a traumatic fire as a child, compel the audience to feel sympathy for Maggie as she has been through tough