Walter Lee and Manhood in a Raisin in The Sun

In Lorraine Hansberry's play, A Raisin in the Sun, the character of Walter Lee Younger serves as a central figure in exploring the themes of manhood and its definition. Walter's quest for financial success and his struggle to assert his masculinity in a society that often diminishes the worth of black men provide a compelling narrative. This essay aims to delve into Walter's understanding of manhood and the implications of his actions and decisions within the play. By analyzing key moments in the text, we can explore how Walter defines manhood and the consequences of his pursuit of it.

Walter Lee Younger's understanding of manhood is multifaceted and evolves throughout the play. Initially, his definition of manhood seems to be tied to financial success and the ability to provide for his family. In Act I, Scene 2, Walter expresses his frustration with his current job as a chauffeur, stating, "I'm thirty-five years old; I been married eleven years and I got a boy who sleeps in the living room—and all I got to give him is stories about how rich white people live" (Hansberry, 35). Here, we see how Walter believes that financial prosperity is a crucial aspect of being a man and providing for his family.

Furthermore, Walter's perception of manhood is influenced by societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. In Act II, Scene 1, Walter confronts his wife, Ruth, about her decision to terminate her pregnancy, stating, "You butchered up my dream. You—held it up to the light of day and murdered it" (Hansberry, 79). In this moment, Walter's anger stems from his belief that his wife's decision undermines his authority as a man and challenges his ability to continue the family legacy.

However, as the play progresses, Walter begins to redefine his understanding of manhood. In Act II, Scene 3, when presented with the opportunity to fulfill his dream of starting a business, Walter initially plans to use his father's life insurance money for his own selfish desires. However, after a heartfelt conversation with his son, Travis, Walter realizes the importance of setting a positive example and providing for future generations. He states, "Son—I come from five generations of people who was slaves and sharecroppers—but ain't nobody in my family never let nobody pay 'em no money that was a way of telling us we wasn't fit to walk the earth" (Hansberry, 98). Here, Walter begins to understand that true manhood is not solely defined by financial success but also by leaving a legacy and fighting against the oppression that his ancestors endured.

Moreover, Walter's interactions with his sister, Beneatha, also contribute to his evolving understanding of manhood. Beneatha challenges traditional gender roles and aspires to become a doctor, defying societal expectations for women during that time period. Walter initially dismisses Beneatha's dreams, belittling her aspirations by saying, "Who the hell told you you had to be a doctor? If you so crazy 'bout messing 'round with sick people—then go be a nurse like other women—or just get married and be quiet" (Hansberry, 41). However, as the play progresses, Walter begins to see the importance of supporting his sister's ambitions and respecting her choices, ultimately recognizing that true manhood involves supporting and empowering the women in his life.

In A Raisin in the Sun, Walter Lee Younger's understanding of manhood undergoes significant transformation. Initially, he equates manhood with financial success and the ability to provide for his family. However, through various experiences and interactions, Walter comes to realize that true manhood encompasses more than material wealth. It involves leaving a legacy, fighting against oppression, and supporting the dreams and aspirations of the women in his life. By examining Walter's journey, we can reflect on the broader implications of societal expectations on manhood and the importance of redefining traditional gender roles. Walter's character serves as a reminder that true manhood is not confined to societal norms but rather grows from personal growth, empathy, and the ability to adapt and redefine oneself in the face of adversity.
Hansberry, Lorraine. A Raisin in the Sun. Vintage Books, 1994.