The Role of Money in Defining Personality in "A Raisin In The Sun"

Money is often considered one of the most significant factors in defining a person's personality. This notion is evident in Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin In The Sun," where the Younger family's characters are shaped and defined by their financial situations. The play explores how money can influence an individual's thoughts, actions, and interactions with others, ultimately shaping their personality. This essay will examine the role of money in defining personality in "A Raisin In The Sun," analyzing the characters' relationships with money and how it shapes their identity.

The play's protagonist, Walter Lee Younger, is an excellent example of how money can shape a person's personality. Walter is frustrated with his current financial situation and believes that money is the solution to all of his problems. His desire for wealth and success is so intense that it consumes him and drives him to make poor decisions, ultimately leading to his downfall. Walter's obsession with money and his constant pursuit of it shape his personality, making him selfish and short-sighted. His relationships with his family and friends suffer as a result, revealing how money can destroy relationships and isolate individuals.

In contrast, Beneatha Younger, Walter's sister, has a different relationship with money. Beneatha is an intellectual who dreams of becoming a doctor and uses her education to challenge traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Money is not as important to her as her career aspirations, and she is willing to sacrifice financial stability to pursue her goals. This shows how money can be less influential in shaping personality if an individual has other priorities that they value more highly.

The matriarch of the Younger family, Lena Younger, also known as Mama, has a complicated relationship with money. Mama is a deeply religious woman who values family and tradition over wealth. However, her financial situation shapes her personality in subtle ways, such as her fear of losing her family's home and her desire to provide for her children. Mama's personality is defined by her role as a caretaker and her belief that money is necessary to ensure her family's security and well-being.

Finally, Ruth Younger, Walter's wife, is another character whose personality is shaped by money. Ruth is a practical and hard-working woman who is constantly worried about the family's finances. Her desire for financial stability and security shapes her personality, making her reserved and cautious. Ruth's relationships with her family and friends are also affected by her financial concerns, showing how money can limit an individual's ability to form connections and enjoy life.

In conclusion, money plays a significant role in defining personality in "A Raisin In The Sun." The play's characters are shaped and defined by their financial situations, highlighting how money can influence an individual's thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. Walter's obsession with money leads to his downfall, while Beneatha's pursuit of her career aspirations reveals how other priorities can diminish the influence of money. Mama's belief that money is necessary for her family's security and Ruth's concern for financial stability demonstrate how money can shape one's personality and relationships. Ultimately, "A Raisin In The Sun" shows that money can be a powerful force in shaping an individual's identity, but it is not the only factor that defines who they are.