A Raisin In The Sun Evidence Retrieval Chart
Introduction
A Raisin in the Sun is a play written by Lorraine Hansberry that debuted on Broadway in 1959. The play tells the story of a black family's experiences in the Washington Park Subdivision of Chicago's Woodlawn neighborhood as they attempt to improve their financial circumstances with an insurance payout following the death of the father. The play is widely considered a masterpiece of American theater and has been revived numerous times on Broadway and in theaters around the world.
The Evidence Retrieval Chart
One of the most useful tools for analyzing a play like A Raisin in the Sun is an Evidence Retrieval Chart. This chart helps readers and viewers keep track of the evidence that supports the play's major themes and ideas. Here is an example of an Evidence Retrieval Chart for A Raisin in the Sun:
Act 1, Scene 1
The play opens with the Younger family preparing to receive a $10,000 insurance payout following the death of Walter Sr. Mama, Walter's mother, is worried about the impact the money will have on the family. Ruth, Walter's wife, is pregnant and concerned about their cramped living conditions. Beneatha, Walter's sister, is studying to become a doctor and is frustrated with the limitations placed on her by her race and gender.
Act 1, Scene 2
Walter meets with his friends to discuss his business ideas, including a liquor store. He is frustrated with his job as a chauffeur and dreams of being his own boss. Mama decides to use some of the insurance money to buy a house in a white neighborhood.
Act 2, Scene 1
Mama puts a down payment on a house in Clybourne Park, a white neighborhood. The family is excited about the prospect of moving, but Mama is concerned about the reactions of their future neighbors. Beneatha begins dating Joseph Asagai, a Nigerian student who encourages her to embrace her African heritage.
Act 2, Scene 2
Walter has lost the rest of the insurance money in a bad investment. He is devastated and considers taking money from the house fund to try and recoup his losses. Mama gives him the remaining money but insists that he put some of it towards Beneatha's education.
Act 3
The family prepares to move to their new house in Clybourne Park. They are visited by Karl Lindner, a representative from the neighborhood association, who offers to buy them out of the house in order to maintain the neighborhood's racial homogeneity. The family refuses and decides to move into the house anyway.
Conclusion
A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful and moving play that explores the experiences of a black family in mid-century America. By using an Evidence Retrieval Chart, readers and viewers can track the play's major themes and ideas and better understand the motivations of its characters. Whether you are studying the play in a classroom setting or simply reading it for pleasure, an Evidence Retrieval Chart can deepen your understanding and appreciation of this classic work of American theater.
