Jacob Sexton

3/28/14
English 3 2nd Period
The Glass Menagerie and A Raisin in the Sun Comparison
A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry and The Glass Menagerie by
Tennessee Williams are two similar plays with two not-so different viewpoints. These
two families come from near identical time periods, economic situations and traits. The
main difference would be their racial backgrounds, one being a black family and the
other white. Many of the characters involved show similarities and differences which are
expressed throughout their dialogue and interactions.
These plays take place in two unrelated but similar cities. A Raisin in the Sun
takes place in Chicago while The Glass Menagerie is set in St. Louis. Both families
struggle with money; the Youngers seemingly more so. Both families had proud
heritages which differ drastically from one another. The Younger family used to be
slaves but escaped and made a life for themselves in the next generations. The
Wingfields used to be wealthy and proud plantation owners but both their money and
respect has dwindled in recent years.
Many of these characters share corresponding personality traits and morals.
These traits may be shared by several characters from either play. Some personalities
may contradict each other, whether it be from the compared play or their own. This is
apparent in the religious beliefs, or lack thereof, between Mama and Beneatha in A
Raisin in the Sun. Mama has a strong belief in the Christianity and God while Beneatha
is an apparent Atheist.
There are three integral roles which are played in both families; the father, the
head of household, and the provider. As the father of the Younger family, Walter must
care for his family in ways only a father can. He wishes nothing but the best for his
family, unfortunately the best is not in his budget. For the Wingfields, the father figure is
absent but still has a presence in the household. Each family member was affected
differently by the father leaving
The head of the Wingfield house is the Amanda, the mother and only remaining
parental figure. After her the father left, Amanda was forced to take charge of the home
and manage it. This responsibility obviously takes a toll on the woman, as she
sometimes loses her temper and seems to regularly bicker with her son. Establishing a
leader in A Raisin in the Sun is a bit more complicated. Most would say that the leader
is Mama, though it can be argued otherwise due to the shift in the last act.