Challenges & Opportunities of Teaching A Raisin in the Sun

The play is, of course, particularly famous for its take on issues of civil rights and segregation. It makes a great window into cross-curricular units, since it has a lot to do with these issues in American history. The play was almost prophetic as it touched on hot-button issues that would change the face of America in the decades after the Youngers first graced the stage.

Some argue that because the play was so topical in its own day, it must surely be dated now. But we here at Shmoop would recommend that anyone who thinks such a thing should read Asagai's monologue about how he plans to struggle to improve his nation of Nigeria. There are few plays today that more poignantly capture the backwards and forwards struggle on the continent of Africa. This is just one example of issues which the play raises, which are still quite relevant today – there are many more to choose from.