Understanding Why George Calls Walter Prometheus: a Symbol of Aspiration and Struggle

Understanding the Reference

In Lorraine Hansberry's iconic play "A Raisin in the Sun," the characters grapple with their dreams, aspirations, and identity against the backdrop of racial discrimination and socio-economic struggles. One of the most intriguing references is when George Murchison calls Walter Lee Younger "Prometheus." This allusion is rich in meaning and offers insight into both characters’ perspectives on ambition, sacrifice, and societal expectations. By delving into this reference, we can better understand the underlying themes of identity and aspiration that permeate Hansberry's work.

The Myth of Prometheus

To fully appreciate why George refers to Walter as Prometheus, it’s essential to first explore who Prometheus was in Greek mythology. He is known for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humanity—a symbol of enlightenment, creativity, and defiance against divine authority. His act not only represents a significant step forward for humanity but also underscores themes of rebellion and consequence. In essence, Prometheus embodies ambition but at a considerable personal cost.

When George uses this reference toward Walter, he invokes these qualities inherent in Prometheus: boldness in pursuing one’s dreams, as well as an acknowledgment of potential sacrifices. However, there’s more than just admiration behind George’s words; there’s also a subtle critique embedded in his use of this allusion.

The Contrast Between Characters

George Murchison comes from a wealthy background; he represents a different kind of ambition—one that aligns with societal expectations rather than challenging them. His outlook contrasts starkly with Walter's passionate drive to improve his family’s circumstances through entrepreneurship and personal sacrifice. While Walter embodies a relentless pursuit of dreams at any cost, George seems content with adhering to what society dictates as success.

This dynamic adds layers to their interaction when George calls Walter Prometheus. It is simultaneously a compliment acknowledging Walter's ambitious nature while also mocking him for what George perceives as reckless dreaming without considering practicality or consequence. This duality captures how individuals often perceive ambition differently based on their backgrounds and experiences.

A Reflection on Sacrifice

Walter Lee Younger is driven by desperation; he wants more than just survival for himself and his family—he yearns for respectability and opportunity that extends beyond what his current socio-economic status allows him to achieve. In contrast, George has not had to confront such harsh realities; thus he approaches life with a sense of security that colors his perception of ambition.

Calling Walter Prometheus highlights this divergence further: while both characters are ambitious in their own right—Walter pushing against societal constraints while George enjoys the privileges afforded by wealth—their understanding of sacrifice varies significantly. Walter believes deeply that he must risk everything (his dignity included) for even a chance at achieving his dreams; however, it seems like George sees this approach as foolishness rather than bravery.

The Impact on Their Relationship

This moment encapsulates broader tensions between them: one man striving passionately against adversity while another observes from afar with skepticism or even disdain. The reference serves not only as an insult but illustrates how differing worldviews can fracture relationships among those who may otherwise be allies in striving towards social progress.

Moreover, calling someone “Prometheus” implies heroism but also foreshadows tragic consequences—after all, Prometheus faced severe punishment from Zeus for his actions which raises questions about whether similar fates await those who dare challenge the status quo today—an implication relevant within both personal relationships depicted throughout Hansberry's narrative alongside wider cultural struggles endured by marginalized communities seeking empowerment over oppressive systems historically rooted within American society.

A Broader Social Commentary

The use of such powerful imagery enriches Hansberry's commentary on race relations during her time—and indeed continues resonating today—in emphasizing how aspirations can clash due not solely individual motivations but intersecting dynamics rooted deeply within class distinctions alongside varying interpretations around success itself dictated largely by societal constructs deemed acceptable at any given moment throughout history evolving continuously over time yet often repeating cycles reflecting previously established norms stifling progress moving forward toward equity across various sectors including economic opportunities available specifically targeted underrepresented groups still navigating systemic barriers preventing upward mobility despite ongoing efforts championing equality enhancing visibility voices silenced long enough now demanding rightful recognition needed inspire change pave pathways leading future generations ultimately reclaiming power lost amidst struggles faced along way journey ahead promising brighter possibilities awaiting fulfillment!

Conclusion: A Call for Understanding

The conversation between George Murchison and Walter Lee Younger ultimately underscores deep-rooted tensions arising from differing perspectives regarding ambition intertwined inseparably within broader socio-economic contexts shaping individual lives experiences informing worldviews dramatically impacting interpersonal dynamics affecting entire communities striving towards justice equality recognition demanded relentlessly today still echoing sentiments articulated poignantly throughout Hansberry’s work illuminating complexities surrounding notions identity aspirations exemplified through enduring struggle ultimately inspiring hope resilience necessary ensuring future generations equipped navigate challenges come embarking journeys discovering paths lead liberation truth freedom boundless possibilities!

• Hansberry, Lorraine. *A Raisin in the Sun*. Random House Inc., 1959.
• Mackey-Kallis, Susan L., et al., “The Role Of Symbolism In *A Raisin In The Sun*.” *Journal Of Black Studies*, vol 31 no 6 (2001): pp 752-764.
• Piper-Wright Sweeney-Morrison Georgia Berenice . “Ambition And Identity In Lorraine Hansberry’s Work.” *Journal Of American Drama And Theatre*, vol 22 no 4 (2010): pp 47-66
• Buchanan-Wollaston Lynn ., “The Contemporary Relevance Of Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin In The Sun.” *African American Review*, vol 45 no 3 (2011): pp 371-385