19 > 20 June: tragedy & alternatives: Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun

discussion-starter: Mark Chapa  

Mark Anthony Chapa

Title -               A Raisin in the Sun

Author -            Lorraine Hansberry (1930 – 1965)

Discussion Questions

Page 1264 – Reading

Page 1269 – Reading

1.  Though the text has some qualities of a Tragedy, is it indeed a Tragedy?

2.  In comparison to Medea (kills her children), Ruth is contemplating the termination of her pregnancy.  What are your reactions to Ruth’s reasoning?  Is it out of necessity, a means of control etc?

3.  Mama seems to have a problem with her husband never managing to save a dime.  The money her husband left was an insurance check upon death.  Does she fall victim to the same behavior with Walter?

4.  Are there any evident cyclical patterns of behavior within the story?  Are these cycles broken or will they continue?