The Protagonist and Antagonist Dynamics in Lorraine Hansberry's a Raisin in The Sun

Lorraine Hansberry’s play A Raisin in the Sun, first published in 1957 and performed in 1959, stands out as one of the most notable works of the author. Unlike many other literary works that focus on the individual experiences and perspectives of African Americans, Hansberry’s play delves into the life of an entire family. A Raisin in the Sun is a story filled with struggle, where the roles of the protagonist and antagonist are not immediately apparent. Upon initial examination, the mother's role appears limited, while Walter Lee emerges as a central figure around whom much of the play revolves. However, it is Mama’s guidance, support, and perspective that prove to be most vital in keeping the family together. Thus, Mama can be identified as the protagonist, while Walter assumes the role of the antagonist.

The plot of A Raisin in the Sun unfolds in 1950s Chicago, depicting the life of an African American family. The story spans a few weeks in the family's life, beginning with their anticipation of a $10,000 insurance payout following the death of the family's patriarch, Mr. Younger. Each family member has their own ideas about how to spend the money, all influenced by racial prejudice and black pride. Mama dreams of buying a house and creating a garden, while Walter Lee dreams of opening a liquor store. His wife, Ruth, supports Mama's idea of moving to a bigger house, while Mama's daughter, Beneatha, wants to use the money to cover her medical school tuition. Disagreements arise as each family member defends their viewpoint. Mama ultimately makes a down payment on a house located in a predominantly white neighborhood, despite the objections of their future neighbors. When word gets out that a black family is moving in, the neighbors attempt to bribe the Youngers to prevent them from moving in. Meanwhile, Walter proceeds with his plan to open a liquor store but is conned by his friend, who runs off with the money. Despite this setback, the Youngers reject the neighbors' proposal and move into the neighborhood, facing an uncertain future with the belief that they can achieve their goals by staying together and supporting one another.

While the story may initially seem centered around Walter Lee, with his flawed decisions, struggles to support his family, and ambitions to improve their financial situation, it is Mama who emerges as the true leader and linchpin of the Younger family. She embodies traditional values that are being eroded by contemporary society. Mama consistently voices her disapproval of Walter's plan to open a liquor store, citing Christian principles and expressing her reluctance to engage in a morally questionable business. As events unfold, it becomes clear that Mama's reservations about Walter's ambitions were justified. She endeavors to guide her daughter, Beneatha, so that she does not adopt corrupt values. Mama's support and guidance are evident in her interactions with Ruth, offering advice and sharing her perspective to help resolve conflicts between Walter and his wife. Despite criticizing Walter's chosen endeavor, Mama ultimately entrusts him with the remaining money. In summary, Mama emerges as the protagonist of the play, successfully keeping the family together during challenging times. She is the heart of the Younger family and a true leader.

On the other hand, Walter Lee, as Mama's only son, shoulders the responsibility of providing for the family. However, his inability to listen to others and disregard for their dreams often causes harm. Thus, despite undergoing the most significant character development throughout the play, Walter should be viewed as the antagonist. Walter has a strained relationship with other family members, frequently arguing with Mama and his wife, and exhibiting aggression towards his sister, Beneatha. He becomes fixated on the belief that money is the solution to the family's problems. However, this obsession, while driving his ambitions, also serves as a hindrance. Walter's financial endeavors consistently fail, as he fails to recognize the deceit behind the liquor store scheme that ultimately results in him losing all the money. He fails to understand that supporting the family requires empathy and understanding of their desires, emotions, and thoughts.

However, towards the end of the play, Walter Lee begins to rectify his past mistakes. He recognizes that acquiring a bigger house is more important for the family's well-being than chasing quick wealth. He rejects the offer from their future neighbors and moves with his family into the white neighborhood. Despite this positive turn of events, it is crucial to acknowledge that it was Mama who guided Walter out of his fallacies. Thus, the storyline can be seen as the process of the protagonist, Mama, leading the antagonist, Walter, towards redemption.

In conclusion, A Raisin in the Sun is a story that focuses on the dynamics of an entire family rather than individual experiences. Each family member plays a crucial role, but Mama's character is the most defining. Without Mama's presence, it is reasonable to assume that the family would disintegrate. WalterLee, while initially positioned as the central figure, ultimately serves as the antagonist due to his flawed decisions and disregard for the desires and emotions of others. However, through Mama's guidance and support, he begins to recognize his mistakes and takes steps towards redemption. Thus, Mama can be identified as the protagonist, leading the family towards unity and a brighter future. A Raisin in the Sun serves as a powerful exploration of the importance of family, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity.