In Lorraine Hansberry's play, A Raisin in the Sun, the character Walter Lee Younger serves as a central figure in the exploration of themes of manhood and its definition. Walter's quest for financial success and his struggle to assert his masculinity in a society that often diminishes the worth of black men makes for a compelling narrative. This essay aims to deepen Walter's understanding of manhood and the implications of his actions and decisions in the play. By analyzing key moments in the text, we can explore how Walter defines manhood and the consequences of pursuing it. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Walter Lee Younger's understanding of manhood is multifaceted and evolves throughout the play. Initially, his definition of manhood seems to be tied to financial success and the ability to provide for one's family. In Act I, Scene 2, Walter expresses his frustration with his current job as a driver, stating, “I am thirty-five; I've been married eleven years and I have a boy who sleeps in the living room – and all I have to tell him stories about is how rich white people live” (Hansberry, 35). Here we see how Walter believes that financial prosperity is a crucial aspect of being a man and providing for his family. Additionally, Walter's perception of manhood is influenced by societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. In Act II, Scene 1, Walter confronts his wife, Ruth, about her decision to terminate her pregnancy, stating, "You butchered my dream. You exposed him to the light of day and you murdered him” (Hansberry, 79). . At this point, Walter's anger stems from his belief that his wife's decision undermines his authority as a man and calls into question his ability to carry on the family legacy. However, as the play progresses, Walter begins to redefine his understanding of manhood. In Act II, Scene 3, when presented with the opportunity to realize his dream of starting a business, Walter initially plans to use his father's life insurance money for his own selfish desires. However, after a heartfelt conversation with his son Travis, Walter realizes the importance of setting a positive example and providing for future generations. He says: "Son, I come from five generations of people who were slaves and sharecroppers, but no one in my family ever let anyone not pay them money, it was a way of telling us that we don't We weren't fit to travel the country. land" (Hansberry, 98). Here, Walter begins to understand that true manhood is not defined only by financial success, but also by leaving a legacy and fighting against the oppression endured by one's ancestors. Additionally, Walter's interactions with his sister Beneatha also contribute to his evolving understanding of manhood. Beneatha questions traditional gender roles and aspires to become a doctor, thus defying societal expectations of women at that time. Walter initially dismisses Beneatha's dreams, downplaying her aspirations by saying, "Who the hell told you you had to be a doctor? If you're so crazy to bother with sick people, then go become a nurse like the other women?" or just get married and shut up” (Hansberry, 41) However, as the play progresses, Walter begins to understand the importance of supporting his sister's ambitions and respecting her choices, eventually. recognize that true manhood involves supporting and, 1994.