Working for a Better Future

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

The theme of searching for and pursuing a better future pervades A Raisin in the Sun.  Two of the main characters, Walter and Beneatha, embody that theme with their actions throughout the play.   Walter, a hard-working chauffeur, has had enough of forcing his family to deal with such a poor standard of living and resolves to give them, and himself, more in life.  He wants Ruth, Mama, and Beneatha to be able to relax, enjoy life, and forgo working themselves to death as his father did.  Specifically, Walter says, "You wouldn't understand yet, son, but your daddy's gonna make a transaction . . . a business transaction . . . You just name it, son . . . and I hand you the world!" (Hansberry 502).  As such, Walter takes money he received from Mama and attempts to start a business with men by the names of Willy Harris and Bobo.  Eventually, Willy disappers with the capital and Walter's business dreams, as well as his dreams of a changed life, disappear.  In contrast, Beneatha seeks for a better future through education, finding herself, and becoming a doctor.  All of Beneatha's goals can be tied a man named Asagai.  Asagai attends the university Beneatha studies at and thus shares her search for knowledge.  Also, through Asagai, Beneatha learns of her African heritage and thus furthers her search for identity.  Finally, in speaking with Asagai, Beneatha explains, with a childhood anecdote, how she knew she wanted to be a doctor.  Therefore, in associating with Asagai and making an effort to receive a quality education, Beneatha attempts to revamp her quality of life as well as that of her family.