Podcast
Questions and Answers
When does Act II begin and what is Beneatha doing as the first scene opens?
When does Act II begin and what is Beneatha doing as the first scene opens?
She is wearing ceremonial clothing from Africa and doing a tribal dance to welcome the men back home.
Why does Walter join Beneatha in the dance?
Why does Walter join Beneatha in the dance?
Because he was drunk
How does the arrival of George Murchison change the mood of the scene?
How does the arrival of George Murchison change the mood of the scene?
The mood becomes serious when George comes in.
What does Beneatha mean when she calls George an 'assimilationist'?
What does Beneatha mean when she calls George an 'assimilationist'?
Signup and view all the answers
What is Walter's attitude toward George?
What is Walter's attitude toward George?
Signup and view all the answers
What is George's attitude toward Walter?
What is George's attitude toward Walter?
Signup and view all the answers
Who is Prometheus, and why does George call Walter by that name?
Who is Prometheus, and why does George call Walter by that name?
Signup and view all the answers
How does Ruth try to ease Walter's mood?
How does Ruth try to ease Walter's mood?
Signup and view all the answers
What evidence is there that Walter and Ruth still love each other, despite their problems?
What evidence is there that Walter and Ruth still love each other, despite their problems?
Signup and view all the answers
What news does Mama break to the family in this scene?
What news does Mama break to the family in this scene?
Signup and view all the answers
How do Ruth and Walter react to Mama's news? What does Walter accuse Mama of?
How do Ruth and Walter react to Mama's news? What does Walter accuse Mama of?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Act II Scene 1 Overview
- Act II opens with Beneatha performing a tribal dance in ceremonial African clothing, symbolizing her cultural connection.
- Walter joins the dance under the influence of alcohol, highlighting his desire to escape his frustrations.
Arrival of George Murchison
- The entrance of George shifts the scene's mood from lighthearted to serious, indicating a clash of personalities.
- Beneatha labels George as an "assimilationist," criticizing his lack of respect for his cultural history and tendency to conform.
Dynamics Between Characters
- Walter displays rudeness towards George, rooted in jealousy; he feels George doesn't understand their struggles with poverty.
- George demonstrates disdain for Walter, viewing him as beneath his social status, which contributes to Walter's frustration.
Symbolism and Insults
- George refers to Walter as Prometheus, a Titan known for bringing fire to humanity, using the name as an insult to belittle Walter's aspirations.
Ruth's Support
- Ruth attempts to soothe Walter's mood, showing her role as a support system, though she refrains from submitting to his demands.
- Their interactions reveal an underlying affection, as Walter seeks out Ruth after being harsh with her, suggesting enduring love despite their issues.
Mama's News
- Mama announces she has made a down payment on a house, a pivotal moment representing hope for a better future.
- Walter reacts with anger to Mama’s news, feeling overshadowed, while Ruth expresses excitement, showcasing differing reactions to opportunity and change.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge of Act II Scene 1 of 'A Raisin in the Sun.' This quiz focuses on key details, character actions, and significant themes in the scene. Perfect for students looking to enhance their understanding of the play.
