A Raisin in the Sun-- Question One

In Hansberry's play, she employs realistic conventions which strengthens the message. It makes it much easier for the audience to connect and feel the main points of the play. The realism forces the audience to empathize with a family struggling to attain the American dream. The bickering between Ruth and Walter (such as on pgs 26-29) is easily recognized as two people who have grown apart because of struggle. Those with an insatiable desire can easily identify with Bennie's incredible dream "to become a doctor" (pg 36). Individuals with a maternal instinct can feel Mama's deep love for her family. And still, others are able to identify with Travis' innocent, almost idolizing, belief in his family. Hansberry's characters reach across all levels of society to touch all people; this is what makes it so realistic. The entire play seems realistic; there aren't any breaks from realism. The actions, people, and speeches are realistic...even the 'time' that passes between events is realistic. The play is based on the ability to be realistic in its message.