Introduction:
In Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, the marriage between Walter and Ruth Younger faces numerous strains that test their love, commitment, and resilience. These strains arise from their financial difficulties and differing worldviews, which often lead to conflicts and tensions within their relationship. This article will explore the greatest strains on their marriage and how they impact the characters’ decisions and interactions.
I. Financial Difficulties:
A. Poverty as a Daily Struggle:
1. Walter and Ruth’s poverty significantly impacts their marriage.
2. Limited resources result in cramped living conditions and financial insecurity.
3. The strain of poverty affects their ability to provide for their family and fulfill their dreams.
B. Ruth’s Pregnancy and the Abortion Dilemma:
1. The financial strain intensifies when Ruth discovers she is pregnant.
2. Walter’s desire for financial security clashes with Ruth’s decision on whether or not to have an abortion.
3. This dilemma highlights the strain poverty places on their marriage and their conflicting views on family planning.
II. Differing Worldviews:
A. Walter’s Dreamer Mentality:
1. Walter Jr. is a dreamer who aspires to become a successful business owner.
2. His dreams of wealth, security, and social status drive him to seek opportunities for advancement.
3. Walter’s dreams often clash with Ruth’s practicality and realism, creating tension within their marriage.
B. Ruth’s Realistic Outlook:
1. Ruth, on the other hand, adopts a more realistic approach to life.
2. She understands the challenges they face and believes in making practical choices for the family’s well-being.
3. Ruth’s realism often puts her at odds with Walter’s idealism, leading to conflicts and strained communication.
III. External Pressures:
A. Racism and Discrimination:
1. The Younger family faces external pressures stemming from racism and discrimination.
2. These societal issues impact their marriage as they navigate the challenges of being African Americans in a predominantly white society.
3. The strain of racial injustice further tests Walter and Ruth’s resilience and ability to support each other.
B. Familial Expectations and Conflicts:
1. The conflicts within the extended Younger family, such as Mama’s disapproval of Walter’s dreams, add strain to their marriage.
2. The expectations and opinions of other family members influence Walter and Ruth’s decisions and interactions.
3. The strain of familial dynamics exacerbates the challenges they face as a couple.
Conclusion:
Walter and Ruth’s marriage in A Raisin in the Sun is subjected to various strains that test their resilience, love, and commitment. Their financial difficulties, differing worldviews, external pressures, and familial conflicts all contribute to the challenges they must overcome. However, through their struggles, they learn important lessons about the importance of communication, compromise, and support in maintaining a strong and loving partnership. Ultimately, their journey serves as a powerful exploration of the complexities and strengths of marriage in the face of adversity.