A Raisin in the Sun Theme of Poverty

Socio-economically, the Youngers are at the bottom of the ladder. This not-so-great position affects Walter Younger the most. While his wife and mother are reasonably accepting of their situation, and Beneatha is more concerned with socio-political issues, Walter has an obsession with money and views it as a transformative power. Due to his poverty, money has a particularly strong hold on Walter’s psyche.

1. Imagine the $10,000 check never came. How would the lives of the Younger family progress? (Or not?)
2. Why is principle more important than money to the Younger family?
3. To what extent does the Younger family’s socio-economic situation influence the choices they make?

Their family’s financial situation is the only reason Ruth Younger is willing to terminate her pregnancy.