Raisin in the sun test prep

Why is Walter such an angry person?

Walter feels stuck in his job as a chauffeur, has little control over his life, and believes his family does not support his dream of owning a business.

At the beginning of the play, why does Walter want Ruth to talk to Mama?

He wants Ruth to help persuade Mama to invest the $10,000 insurance money in his liquor store idea.

Why is Walter resentful toward Ruth?

He feels Ruth does not support his dream and often shuts him down instead of encouraging him.

What is Walter’s dream?

Walter dreams of owning a liquor store to gain financial independence and provide a better life for his family.

Do you think Walter’s dream can come true?

It could come true if he had support and business sense, but it’s risky because he is desperate and impatient.

What is Beneatha’s dream?

Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor to help others and prove women, especially Black women, can succeed.

Do you think Beneatha’s dream can come true?

Yes, because she’s determined, intelligent, and challenges traditional expectations.

Why does Walter pick on his sister?

He resents her education, feels she wastes money, and envies her hope for the future.

What causes friction between Mama and Ruth?

Ruth encourages Mama to support Walter’s liquor store idea, but Mama strongly disapproves.

Why is Mama opposed to the liquor store?

She believes selling liquor is sinful and wants the money used for something moral and lasting.

What suggestion does Ruth make to Mama about the money?

Ruth suggests Mama consider investing in Walter’s liquor store, but Mama refuses.

Who was Big Walter? What do we learn about him?

Big Walter was Mama’s late husband who worked himself to death providing for his family.

What causes the argument between Mama and Beneatha?

Beneatha says she doesn’t believe in God, offending Mama’s strong faith.

Why does Ruth consider having an abortion?

She’s exhausted, financially strained, and feels the family can’t afford another child.

Who is Joseph Asagai?

A Nigerian student who admires Beneatha’s intelligence and encourages her to embrace African heritage.

Who is George Murchison?

A wealthy African American man who dates Beneatha but dismisses her ambitions.

How does Walter describe his frustration to Mama?

He says no one listens to or respects his dreams, comparing himself to a volcano.

How does Walter disappoint Mama at the end of Act I?

He storms out instead of communicating, showing his distance from the family.

How would you explain the ups and downs in Walter’s moods? Ruth’s?

Walter is excited but frustrated by obstacles; Ruth is tired and worried about money and family.

Compare Joseph Asagai and George Murchison.

Asagai – proud, thoughtful, idealistic, encourages self-discovery. George – materialistic, conforming, focused, encourages fitting in.

What does Mrs. Johnson add to the play?

She adds humor and gossip, showing fear of racial integration.

Describe Mr. Lindner. What does he represent?

He represents polite racism and societal pressure to maintain segregation.

Why does George call Walter “Prometheus”?

George mocks Walter’s ambitions, comparing him to the overreaching mythological figure Prometheus.

What do the family’s gifts to Mama reveal about them?

They show love, respect, and appreciation for Mama’s sacrifices and individuality.

Does the loss of the money surprise you? How do the characters react?

It’s shocking but realistic; Walter is devastated, Mama is saddened, and the family worries but stays strong.

What do you expect to happen in Act III?

The family will likely reject Lindner’s offer and face the future with dignity despite losing the money.

Why does Beneatha tell the story about Rufus?

To show how she once believed in helping people through medicine but has lost that hope.

How has Beneatha changed after Walter loses the money?

She’s bitter, hopeless, and feels her dream of being a doctor is gone.

Describe Asagai’s attitude toward Nigeria.

He’s proud and idealistic, seeing Nigeria as full of promise and purpose.

What does Asagai ask Beneatha to do?

He asks her to go to Nigeria with him; she’s unsure at first.

What words describe Beneatha’s attitude toward Walter?

Angry, disappointed, and resentful—though she later regains some respect.

What does Mama decide to do?

She decides the family will move int