2. Short-response prompt (15 points)
Read the following excerpt from the ending of Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun
WALTER (A beat. The tension hangs; then WALTER steps back from it) Yeah. Well - what I mean
is that we come from people who had a lot of pride. I mean – we are very proud people. And that's
my sister over there and she's going to be a doctor - and we are very proud -
LINDNER Well - I am sure that is very nice, but
WALTER What I am telling you is that we called you over here to tell you that we are very proud
and that this - (Signaling to TRAVIS) Travis, come here. (TRAVIS crosses and WALTER draws him
before him facing the man) This is my son, and he makes the sixth generation our family in this
country. And we have all thought about your offer
LINDNER Well, good...good-
WALTER And we have decided to move into our house because my father - my father - he
earned it for us brick by brick. (MAMA has her eyes closed and is rocking back and forth as
though she were in church, with her head nodding the Amen yes) We don't want to make no
trouble for nobody or fight no causes, and we will try to be good neighbors. And that's all we got
to say about that. (He looks the man absolutely in the eyes) We don't want your money. (He turns
and walks away)
LINDNER (Looking around at all of them) I take it then
that you have decided to occupy..
BENEATHA That's what the man said.
LINDNER (To MAMA in her reverie) Then I would like to appeal to you, Mrs. Younger. You are older
and wiser and understand things better I am sure..
MAMA I am afraid you don't understand. My son said we was going to move and there ain't
nothing left for me to say. (Briskly) You know how these young folks is nowadays, mister. Can't do
a thing with 'em! (As he opens his mouth, she rises) Good-bye.
LINDNER (Folding up his materials) Well - if you are that final about it... there is nothing left for
me to say. (He finishes, almost ignored by the family, who are concentrating on WALTER LEE. At
the door LINDNER halts and looks around) I sure hope you people know what you're getting into.
Identify two themes that are clearly developed in this excerpt. How does the author develop the
two themes over the course of this excerpt? Be sure to use specific details from the text to
support your answer.