Mama's Struggles
Mama wants one main thing for her family. What is it?
A safe home and a better future.
What is Mama’s biggest dream?
To own a house with a yard.
What era was A Raisin in the Sun written in?
1950s
Today, most renters say they need multiple jobs or side hustles to keep up with rent increases. Who in the play represents that “working nonstop but still struggling” reality?
Walter.
What does Mama’s plant symbolise?
Her hope and her care for her family.
What internal conflict does Mama face throughout the play?
Keeping her dream alive while dealing with financial and family pressure.
What reality makes her dream difficult?
Poverty and discrimination in housing.
What modern issue mirrors Mama’s struggle today?
Housing insecurity and rising rent.
Over 50% of renters say housing costs cause family arguments. Which scene in the play shows a similar conflict?
RUth and Walter fighting.
What does the new house symbolize?
A fresh start and the possibility of a better life.
Why does Mama buy the house even though the neighborhood is white?
he refuses to let racism stop her family from having a home.
Which family member threatens the dream by losing the insurance money?
Walter.
What is one reason families struggle to find stable housing today?
Rent is rising.
Many families today live in overcrowded apartments because larger units are too expensive. Which part of the Younger family’s home reflects this modern issue?
Travis sleeping on the living room couch every night.
What theme connects both the play and housing issues today?
The struggle for stability.
What does Mama worry her children might lose if the family keeps struggling?
Their hope and sense of pride.
What does the Younger family's apartment represent?
The reality of being stuck and limited.
What type of neighborhood does Mama buy the house in?
A white neighborhood.
Today, lots of families move to less welcoming neighborhoods because those are the only homes they can afford. Which moment in the play matches this reality?
Mama choosing a house in Clybourne Park even though the neighbors don’t want them there?
The insurance check becomes a symbol of everyone’s dreams clashing at once. What theme does this highlight in modern life?
Families having limited resources and trying to decide what matters most for their future.
How does Mama try to keep the family united during conflicts?
By reminding them of God.
Why does Mama give Walter the remaining money even though she’s scared?
She wants him to feel trusted and responsible.
What modern statistic shows that housing is still unaffordable?
Minimum wage workers can’t afford a two-bedroom house.
Studies show that women in low-income households carry most of the emotional load of keeping the family stable. Which character’s role shows this?
Ruth, who cooks, cleans, works, worries, and keeps peace in the house?
Why is Mama considered the “heart” of the family?
She holds the family together emotionally and guides their values.