A Raisin in the Sun: Generation Gap (#5)

"Once upon a time freedom used to be life-now it's money. I guess the world really do change..." (Mama, 74)

The question addressed here is: show how Raisin deals with the generation gap- the problems that the older generation has in dealing with the younger generation and vice versa. The first example is the difference in religious beliefs of Mama and Beneatha. While Mama is faithful, Beneatha doesn't believe in God. Although to members of the same generation, this dispute might seem trivial, the discrepancy between mother and daughter is a much bigger deal. Beneatha's disbelief in God comes off as ignorant or selfish to Mama, who is a fervent believer.

The next example is the fact that Beneatha wants to become a doctor. Her mother, Mama, is a maid for others, and her brother, Walter, is a chauffeur. This shows her family is not wealthy, and does not really have extraordinary ambitions to do something with their lives. Bennie breaks this stereotype of Mama's ordinary and mundane lifestyle and is determined to make something of herself. This difference in life goals sets Bennie apart from the other family members.

The last example, from the quote above, is a huge conflicting point of view for Mama and Walter. Mama states that growing up and raising a family, her focus was on freedom, and being set in the 1960's, the play comes in just as Civil Rights are being discussed. Walter, on the other hand, seemingly cares only about money. Even though he just wants to make something out of his life by going into business with Willy for a liquor store, Walter's blunt urgency to have money creates a great gap between Walter's and Mama's views on important things in life.