Beneatha's Dreams In A Raisin In The Sun

The play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry is a powerful exploration of dreams, aspirations, and the challenges faced by a Black family in the 1950s as they strive for a better life. Among the central characters is Beneatha Younger, Mama's intelligent and ambitious daughter, who harbors aspirations that extend beyond the conventional expectations of her time. Understanding Beneatha's desires and motivations is crucial to grasping the play's broader themes of identity, social justice, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity. This article delves into Beneatha's character, her aspirations, and the significance of her dreams within the context of the play.

Beneatha Younger: A Portrait of Ambition and Identity

Beneatha Younger is a complex and compelling character in A Raisin in the Sun. She is the intellectual and fiercely independent younger sister of Walter Lee Younger and the daughter of Mama (Lena Younger). Unlike some of the other characters, whose dreams are tied to more traditional notions of success and stability, Beneatha's aspirations are deeply personal and connected to her quest for self-discovery and identity. She represents the younger generation's desire for change and challenges the social norms and expectations of her time.

Beneatha's ambition is evident in her pursuit of higher education and her desire to become a doctor. This aspiration is particularly significant given the limited opportunities available to Black women in the 1950s. Her choice of career is not merely about financial security; it's a reflection of her commitment to making a meaningful contribution to society and breaking down racial and gender barriers. Beneatha's intellectual curiosity extends beyond her academic pursuits. She is interested in exploring her African heritage and grappling with questions of identity and belonging. This quest leads her to explore different cultural expressions, from taking guitar lessons to experimenting with African clothing and hairstyles. Her exploration of her identity is a central theme in the play, highlighting the complexities of being a Black woman in a predominantly white society.

Beneatha's Academic Aspirations: A Path to Empowerment

At the heart of Beneatha's dreams is her fervent desire to become a doctor. In the context of the 1950s, this ambition was particularly groundbreaking for a young Black woman. The medical profession, like many others, was largely dominated by white men, and opportunities for Black individuals, especially women, were severely limited. Beneatha's choice to pursue medicine is therefore not just a personal goal but a powerful statement of her determination to overcome societal barriers and achieve professional success on her own terms.

The significance of Beneatha's dream lies in its challenge to the prevailing racial and gender norms of the time. By aspiring to become a doctor, Beneatha is defying the limitations placed upon her by society and asserting her right to pursue her intellectual and professional passions. This ambition is fueled by her desire to make a tangible difference in the world. She sees medicine as a way to help people, particularly those in underserved communities, and to contribute to a more just and equitable society. Her commitment to her dream is evident in her dedication to her studies and her willingness to confront the challenges and obstacles that come her way. She faces skepticism and discouragement from some of those around her, including her brother Walter, who initially struggles to understand her ambitions. Despite these challenges, Beneatha remains steadfast in her pursuit of her goals.

The Quest for Identity: Exploring African Heritage

Beneatha's quest for identity is a central theme in A Raisin in the Sun, and it is closely intertwined with her exploration of her African heritage. In the 1950s, the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, and Black Americans were increasingly asserting their cultural identity and challenging the legacy of racism and discrimination. Beneatha's interest in her African roots reflects this broader cultural and political awakening. She is drawn to the ideas of Pan-Africanism and the movement to reclaim African culture and traditions. This interest leads her to engage with figures like Joseph Asagai, a Nigerian student who introduces her to African culture and encourages her to embrace her heritage.

Beneatha's exploration of her identity manifests in various ways. She experiments with African clothing and hairstyles, learns about African history and culture, and engages in discussions about the African diaspora. This exploration is not without its challenges. Beneatha grapples with questions of authenticity and the complexities of connecting with a heritage that has been disrupted by the legacy of slavery and colonialism. She also faces criticism and misunderstanding from some members of her family, who do not fully grasp the significance of her quest. Despite these challenges, Beneatha remains committed to exploring her identity and finding a sense of belonging and connection to her African roots. This quest is an integral part of her journey toward self-discovery and personal empowerment.

Beneatha's Dream: Becoming a Doctor

In A Raisin in the Sun, Beneatha expresses a clear aspiration: to become a doctor. This ambition is significant for several reasons. First, it highlights her intellectual curiosity and her desire to make a meaningful contribution to society. Second, it underscores the challenges faced by women, particularly Black women, in pursuing professional careers during the mid-20th century. Beneatha's dream is not simply a personal goal; it is a statement of her determination to break down barriers and achieve success in a field historically dominated by white men.

Beneatha's commitment to her dream is evident throughout the play. She is a student in college, diligently studying and preparing for her future. She faces financial obstacles, as the family's resources are limited, but she remains resolute in her pursuit of education. The money the family is set to receive from Mama's deceased husband's insurance policy becomes a crucial factor in Beneatha's ability to continue her studies. However, the tension surrounding the use of this money, particularly Walter's desire to invest in a liquor store, creates conflict within the family and threatens Beneatha's aspirations.

The Significance of Beneatha's Medical Aspirations

Beneatha's dream of becoming a doctor carries profound significance within the context of A Raisin in the Sun. It represents not only her personal ambition but also a larger struggle for social justice and equality. In the 1950s, the medical profession was largely inaccessible to Black individuals, especially women. By aspiring to become a doctor, Beneatha is challenging these systemic barriers and asserting her right to pursue her intellectual and professional passions.

Her aspiration is also tied to her desire to help others, particularly those in her community. Beneatha recognizes the disparities in healthcare access and the need for Black doctors to serve Black patients. Her dream is therefore rooted in a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Furthermore, Beneatha's medical aspirations reflect her broader quest for self-discovery and identity. By pursuing a challenging and meaningful career, she is defining herself on her own terms and rejecting the limitations and stereotypes imposed upon her by society. Her dream is a powerful symbol of her resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in her own potential.

The Obstacles in Beneatha's Path

Despite her determination, Beneatha faces numerous obstacles in her pursuit of her dream. Financial constraints are a major challenge for the Younger family, and the cost of higher education poses a significant burden. The family's limited resources mean that Beneatha's educational aspirations are often in competition with other needs and desires, such as Walter's dream of owning a business.

The tension surrounding the use of the insurance money creates a major source of conflict within the family. Walter's desire to invest in a liquor store clashes with Beneatha's need for funds to continue her studies. This conflict highlights the different priorities and values within the family and the challenges of balancing individual aspirations with collective needs. In addition to financial obstacles, Beneatha faces societal barriers stemming from racial and gender discrimination. The limited opportunities available to Black women in the 1950s make her path to becoming a doctor even more challenging. She must overcome prejudice and stereotypes in order to succeed in a predominantly white and male-dominated field.

Conclusion: Beneatha's Enduring Dream

In A Raisin in the Sun, Beneatha Younger's aspiration to become a doctor stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her dream represents not only her personal ambition but also the broader struggle for equality and social justice faced by Black Americans in the mid-20th century. Despite the obstacles and challenges she encounters, Beneatha remains steadfast in her pursuit of her goals, embodying the spirit of determination and self-empowerment.

Beneatha's character is a powerful reminder of the importance of pursuing one's dreams in the face of adversity. Her journey toward becoming a doctor is a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering belief in one's potential. As the play concludes, Beneatha's future remains uncertain, but her commitment to her dream serves as an inspiration for generations to come. Her story underscores the enduring human quest for self-discovery, purpose, and the realization of one's full potential.

Therefore, the correct answer is B. Become a doctor.