A Raisin in The Sun Ruth Character Analysis Essay

Lorraine Hansberry's play, "A Raisin in the Sun," is a timeless classic that delves into the struggles and aspirations of an African American family in 1950s Chicago. Among the compelling characters in the play, Ruth Younger stands out as a complex and multifaceted character whose experiences and decisions shape the narrative. In this essay, I will conduct a character analysis of Ruth Younger, focusing on her resilience in the face of adversity and her role as a matriarch within the Younger family.

Ruth's Resilience

Ruth Younger is portrayed as a resilient and resourceful character in "A Raisin in the Sun." Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial hardships, marital discord, and societal discrimination, Ruth remains steadfast in her determination to provide for her family. As a working-class woman, Ruth's struggles reflect the broader experiences of African American women during the 1950s, who had to navigate systemic racism and economic inequality. According to scholar Kimberley N. Parris, African American women like Ruth were often relegated to low-paying jobs and faced limited opportunities for advancement in the workforce (Parris, 2019). Ruth's resilience in the face of these obstacles underscores her strength and determination to secure a better future for her family.

Ruth's Role as a Matriarch

Moreover, Ruth's role as a matriarch within the Younger family is crucial in shaping the dynamics of the household. As the wife of Walter Lee Younger and the mother of Travis Younger, Ruth serves as a stabilizing force amidst the chaos and conflict that arises within the family. Scholar Patricia R. Schroeder argues that Ruth embodies the traditional values of motherhood and nurturing, providing emotional support and guidance to her family members in times of crisis (Schroeder, 2017). Ruth's ability to maintain a sense of unity and cohesion within the family highlights her resilience and determination to uphold her responsibilities as a wife and mother.

Ruth's Transformation

In addition to her resilience and role as a matriarch, Ruth's character also undergoes a transformation throughout the play, as she grapples with her own desires and aspirations. Initially, Ruth suppresses her own dreams in order to support her husband's business ventures and provide for her family. However, as the narrative unfolds, Ruth begins to assert her own agency and voice her own needs and desires. This evolution in Ruth's character challenges traditional gender roles and expectations, as she strives to assert her own autonomy and pursue her own goals. Scholar Angela P. Harris notes that Ruth's journey reflects the broader struggles of African American women to assert their independence and agency in a patriarchal society (Harris, 2018). Ruth's character arc serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of African American women in the face of adversity.

Counterarguments

Some critics may argue that Ruth's character is limited in its portrayal of African American women, as she conforms to certain stereotypes of the self-sacrificing and nurturing matriarch. However, it is important to recognize that Ruth's character is complex and multifaceted, as she grapples with her own desires and aspirations throughout the play. By showcasing Ruth's evolution and agency, "A Raisin in the Sun" challenges traditional expectations of African American women and highlights the diversity of experiences within the community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ruth Younger emerges as a resilient and multifaceted character in "A Raisin in the Sun," whose experiences and decisions shape the narrative of the play. Through her resilience in the face of adversity, her role as a matriarch within the Younger family, and her journey towards asserting her own agency, Ruth embodies the strength and determination of African American women in the 1950s. By conducting a character analysis of Ruth Younger, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by African American women during this period. Ruth's character serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of African American women in the face of systemic oppression and discrimination.

Overall, Ruth Younger's character in "A Raisin in the Sun" offers valuable insights into the experiences of African American women in the 1950s and continues to resonate with audiences today. As we reflect on Ruth's journey, we are reminded of the importance of resilience, agency, and determination in the face of adversity. Ruth Younger's character remains a poignant and enduring symbol of strength and perseverance, inspiring audiences to confront their own struggles and aspirations with courage and tenacity.