A Raisin In The Sun Lena's Failure

In “A Raisin in the sun” by Lorraine Hansberry, a family’s differences arise once they receive a check for a large amount of money. Mama and Ruth are the peace makers of the family, and see the money can be a great opportunity to have a home that can better suit their family. Walter Lee wants the money to open a liquor store, so that he can invest in a better life for his family, but fails instead. Beneatha wants a higher education; therefore she believes that the money can help contribute to her tuition. Failure to understand one another’s desires and feelings it created tension and conflict amongst the family. Lena is the mother of Walter and Beneatha, who is referred to a mama in this play. Mama lives in a small apartment and works part time at the age of sixty. Recently, she received an insurance check from her husband, who has passed away. Mama used a partial amount of this money to buy a house, so her family can live a better life. Mama knew that if she bought this house that it would bring peace to her family. She stated “I just seen my family falling apart today… just falling to pieces in front of my eyes,” (Hansberry 413.) Mama sacrificed Beneatha’s education to help fulfill the dreams that Walter Lee had, by giving him the left over money …show more content…
Beneatha feels that the money is “Not ours-hers,” referring to Mama (Hansberry 385.) However, she still sees this money as chance to obtain her education to become a doctor and heal the ones in need. Walter thinks Beneatha should just become a nurse and be done with school, so she can provide for her family. He feels she thinks that she is better than everyone and she can “stop acting holy ‘round here,” (Hansberry 386.). Mama understands that Beneatha wants her education and is willing to help her in any way that she can. Although, Beneatha loses hope for her education she is happy her family has a home they can now call their