Walter Lee Younger in "A Raisin in The Sun"

Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun" explores the struggles and dreams of an African-American family living in Chicago in the 1950s. The play's protagonist, Walter Lee Younger, embodies the complexities of the African-American experience during that time. Through his ambitions, struggles, and transformation, Walter's character arc contributes to larger themes of identity, dreams, and family.

Ambitions and Dreams

Walter's initial dreams and ambitions are centered around becoming a successful businessman. His aspiration for financial security and identity is evident in his desire to invest in a liquor store.

According to the United States Census, African-American families in the 1950s had a median income that was less than half of the income of white families. This made the achievement of financial stability even more critical for Walter as he sought to provide for his family and prove himself as a man.

Throughout the play, Walter's determination to achieve his ambitions is evident. For example, he continuously tries to persuade his mother to give him the insurance money, which he believes will be the start of his path to economic security.

Struggles and Obstacles

Despite Walter's efforts, racial and economic challenges pose significant obstacles to his ambitions. The play highlights how Walter's struggle to provide for his family contributes to his frustrations. He feels constrained by societal pressures that limit the opportunities available to African-Americans.

For instance, during a conversation with his friend Bobo, Walter realizes that they are both victims of discrimination that makes it difficult for them to secure economic opportunities. He says, "We come from people who had a lot of pride. I mean we are very proud people. And that’s my sister over there and she’s going to be a doctor, and we are very proud. And beneath all our pride... there is a wonderin’."

Walter's experiences reflect the broader challenges faced by African-Americans in the 1950s. Racial segregation policies and discriminatory practices made it difficult for them to access the same opportunities available to white Americans.

Transformation and Growth

Walter's character arc reaches its turning point when he loses the insurance money, causing him to experience immense disappointment and frustration. This event prompts a period of introspection and self-discovery that ultimately leads to his transformation.

As Walter interacts with the other characters in the play, he gradually starts to develop a new perspective on life. For example, his dialogue with Beneatha, his sister, stimulates his consciousness about the challenges faced by African-Americans. This interaction propels him to change his priorities and seek to leave a positive legacy for his family.

By the end of the play, Walter's growth is evident. He learns to value his family more and recognizes the importance of nurturing their relationships while still pursuing his ambitions.

Impact on Themes and Messages

Walter's character contributes significantly to the larger themes explored in the play, such as identity, dreams, and family. Walter's pursuit of his dreams raises questions about the extent to which one's career goals should dictate their identity. It also highlights the urgency of attaining economic security for African-Americans in a system that denies them equal opportunities.

Furthermore, Walter's struggles and transformation offer insight into the complexities of the African-American experience in the 1950s. The play draws attention to the effects of systemic racism on the dreams and aspirations of African-American families, forcing them to confront their identity and sense of belonging.

The lasting impressions and perspectives gained from Walter's character arc highlight the relevance of his story in understanding the African-American experience during the time of the play "A Raisin in the Sun."

Conclusion

Walter Lee Younger is an essential character in "A Raisin in the Sun" who embodies the struggles, dreams, and transformations that African-Americans faced in the 1950s. His ambitions for financial security and identity reflect larger societal pressures present during this time. The obstacles and setbacks that he encounters contribute to his frustrations as he seeks to provide for his family. However, through a period of introspection, Walter achieves personal growth and learns the importance of family and pursuing his dreams.

Walter's character arc and transformation contribute significantly to the play's larger themes of identity, dreams, and family. Furthermore, his journey serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by African-American families during this period.

References

1. U.S. Census Bureau, Historical Income Tables - Households, https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/income-poverty/historical-income-households.html