A Raisin the in the Sun Discussion Questions

·         What is a stereotype? Give an example.

·         Identify the ethnic/racial/religious groups to which you belong. Discuss one way in which one or all of these groups are stereotyped. How does this make you feel?

·         Give some examples of how African-Americans have been stereotyped.

·         Give some examples of stereotyping of white Americans.

·         Using any stereotype you have been subjected to, explain the basis for this stereotype. How does this make you feel? How might this stereotype interfere with your ability to be successful or happy?

·         Using any stereotype of an ethnic/racial/religious group of which you are not a member, explain the basis for the stereotype. How do you think this makes the members of this group feel? How might this stereotype impede a group member's ability to be successful or happy?

·         Relate a situation in which one of your stereotyped attitudes turned out to be wrong. How do you feel now?

·         What is meant by prejudice? How do stereotypes relate to prejudice?

1. The play is prefaced by a Langston Hughes poem. How does the play illustrate the theme of the poem?

2. Why do you think all the scenes take place in the family’s house?

3. How is Beneatha different from other Younger family members?

4. How is the theme of assimilation treated in the play?

5. What are the greatest strains on Walter and Ruth’s marriage?

6. To what extent do you think Hansberry is critiquing traditional sex roles in the play?

7. In what ways is Hansberry challenging stereotypes of African Americans in the play?

8. How does Walter change from the beginning of the play?

9.Why do you think Mama changes her mind and gives Walter the insurance money?

10.Why does Mrs. Johnson say that the Youngers are proud?

11. Why is Mama’s little plant so important to her? What does she mean when she says "It expresses ME"?

12. What does the new house signify to each of the Youngers?

13.Look closely at Karl Lindner’s speech when he talks to the Youngers. What do you notice about the way he uses language?

14. Who is the main character in the play?

15. The play was written and produced over forty years ago. To what extent do you think that conflicts and issues presented in the play are still relevant?