Question 6
LORRAINE HANSBERRY: A Raisin in the Sun
How are Mama, Ruth and Beneatha portrayed in the play?
Observation
This was a popular question. Many of the candidates merely narrated the plot of the play, though a few number of them were able to present each character separately by pointing out their roles in the play.
The following points were expected from the candidates:
• The characterisation of mama as the Matriarch of the play and her taking over responsibility as head after her husband’s death; her offer of love even when there are cracks in the family fold; her use of the insurance money to buy a house at Clybourne Park.
• Ruth’s portrayal as a not so conventional woman in her relationship with Walter; her ability to express her feelings openly to Mama; her acting as Mama’s confidant; her pleasure in moving out of misery to Clybourne park.
• Beneatha’s portrayal as the unconventional black American woman, educated and aspiring to become a doctor. Her intolerance of mediocrity in men who would put her down and her emotional and psychological affinity to men like Asagai.
Candidates' performance in this question was fair.