Generation Gap

A Raisin in the Sun
by Lorraine Hansberry
Question 5

Because three generations of people are living in the same apartment, generational differences are bound to arise.  Beneatha is the family member I believe is the most different from all the rest because of her age differences, causing different tastes in style, men, and a greater education.  Her education and her focus on culture are the two main points that distinguish her from her family.  "Her speech is a mixture of many things; it is different from the rest of the family's insofar as education has permeated her sense of English..." (Hansberry, 35)  On page 61, it describes how focused on her culture she is, like Dee from "Everyday Use."  She listens to tribal music and wears the clothes of her ancestors and authentic people.  On page 63, she declares, "I am not an assimilationist!"  Beneatha wants to be independent but also culturally proud.

Mama does not understand Beneatha's beliefs or style and does not understand why her culture is so important to her and why she would cut all her hair off.  Also, Mama does not understand Beneatha's desire for success and independence.  Mama just wants her to marry a rich man so that she can be comfortable.  The generation conflicts surfaces many times in the play, but the gap slowly starts to come together when Mama asks about George and Beneatha tells her that he's a fool.  Then Mama, coming to an understanding says, "Well- I guess you better not waste your time with no fools."  And Beneatha says in reply, "Mama- thank you...for understanding me this time" (Hansberry, 98).