Literary devices in raisin in the sun – In Lorraine Hansberry’s acclaimed play “A Raisin in the Sun,” literary devices play a pivotal role in conveying the complex themes and experiences of the Younger family. Through symbolism, metaphor, and foreshadowing, Hansberry deftly weaves a narrative that explores the intersection of race, family, and the American Dream.
Symbolism, notably the recurring motif of the sun, serves as a powerful representation of hope and aspiration for the Youngers. Metaphors and similes, such as the comparison of Beneatha to “a proud peacock,” enhance characterization and deepen the understanding of their motivations.
Symbolism
The play’s title, A Raisin in the Sun, contains a powerful symbol that represents the family’s dreams and aspirations. The sun is a symbol of hope, growth, and prosperity. It is also a reminder of the racial barriers that the family faces.
Throughout the play, the sun is used to symbolize the family’s journey toward their dreams. In the opening scene, Walter Lee Younger looks out the window and sees the sun shining. He says, “I seen the sun rise this morning like a red ball of fire.
It was like a big old tomato in the sky.” This image of the sun rising is a symbol of the family’s hope for a better future.
Other Symbols
- The house:The house that the Youngers move into is a symbol of their dreams and aspirations. It is also a symbol of the racial barriers that they face.
- The money:The money that Walter Lee Younger receives from his father’s insurance policy is a symbol of his family’s hope for a better future. It is also a symbol of the temptations that Walter faces.
- The plant:The plant that Beneatha Younger grows is a symbol of her hope for a better future. It is also a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit.
Metaphor and Simile
Hansberry uses metaphors and similes throughout the play to create vivid images and to emphasize the characters’ emotions and experiences.
Metaphors
- “I’m like a bird in a cage.”This metaphor is used by Mama Younger to describe her feelings of being trapped and unable to escape her circumstances.
- “Life is a long lesson in humility.”This metaphor is used by Walter Lee Younger to describe his experiences with racism and discrimination.
Similes, Literary devices in raisin in the sun
- “She’s as sweet as a peach.”This simile is used by Walter Lee Younger to describe his wife, Ruth.
- “He’s as strong as an ox.”This simile is used by Mama Younger to describe her son, Walter Lee.
Foreshadowing and Irony
Hansberry uses foreshadowing and irony to create suspense and dramatic tension.
Foreshadowing
- In the opening scene, Walter Lee Younger looks out the window and sees a white man moving into the neighborhood. This foreshadows the racial conflict that the family will face.
- In the second act, Walter Lee Younger receives a letter from his father’s insurance policy. This foreshadows the conflict that will arise over the money.
Irony
- The play’s title, A Raisin in the Sun, is ironic because it suggests that the family will achieve their dreams. However, the play ends with the family facing an uncertain future.
- The fact that the Youngers are moving into a white neighborhood is ironic because it shows that they are not welcome in the community.
Characterization
Hansberry uses both direct and indirect characterization to develop her characters.
Direct Characterization
Hansberry uses direct characterization to tell the reader what the characters are like. For example, she describes Mama Younger as “a strong, proud woman.” She also describes Walter Lee Younger as “a dreamer.”
Indirect Characterization
Hansberry uses indirect characterization to show the reader what the characters are like through their actions, dialogue, and interactions with other characters. For example, Mama Younger’s strength is shown through her ability to keep her family together in the face of adversity.
Walter Lee Younger’s dreams are shown through his desire to buy a house for his family.
Setting
The play is set in a small, two-bedroom apartment in Chicago’s South Side.
The setting is important because it reflects the family’s economic and social status. The apartment is cramped and overcrowded, and it is located in a poor neighborhood.
The setting also reflects the family’s racial identity. The Youngers are an African American family living in a white neighborhood. This creates a sense of tension and conflict.
Dialogue: Literary Devices In Raisin In The Sun
Hansberry uses dialogue to reveal the characters’ personalities and motivations.
The dialogue is realistic and believable, and it captures the rhythms of everyday speech. The characters often speak in long, passionate monologues, which allows them to express their thoughts and feelings in detail.
The dialogue also contributes to the play’s themes. For example, the dialogue about the house reveals the family’s dreams and aspirations. The dialogue about the money reveals the family’s conflicts and tensions.
Theme
The play explores a number of themes, including family, race, and the American Dream.
Family
The play is about a family who is struggling to make a better life for themselves. The family is close-knit, but they are also facing a number of challenges.
Race
The play is set in a time when racial discrimination was widespread. The Youngers are an African American family, and they face discrimination from the white community.
The American Dream
The play explores the American Dream, the belief that anyone can achieve success in America if they work hard enough. The Youngers are striving to achieve the American Dream, but they are facing a number of obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the sun in “A Raisin in the Sun”?
The sun symbolizes hope, aspiration, and the potential for a brighter future for the Younger family.
How does Hansberry use foreshadowing to create dramatic tension?
Hansberry employs foreshadowing through subtle hints and events that suggest future developments, building anticipation and suspense.
What is the purpose of the metaphors and similes in the play?
Metaphors and similes enhance characterization by providing vivid comparisons that reveal the characters’ inner thoughts and motivations.
