Symbolism of Plant in A Raisin In The Sun

In Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin In The Sun Mama, cares a great deal for her plant and is the main focus in many of the scenes. She confesses that even though the plant never gets enough light or water, she is proud of how it thrives under her care. Mama also exhibits the same attitude towards her family during the play. She says to the herself, "They spirited all right, my children, got to admit they got spirit- Bennie and Walter. Like this little old plant that ain't never had enough sunshine or nothing- and look at it" (Hansberry 52). In Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin In The Sun, Mama's love and care for her plant symbolizes her nurturing and caring approach to all things that she loves.
The character of Mama (Lena) Younger appears to be the most representative character in the play. In act I scene I of the play Mama's attitude towards her plant is well known by those in the house. "You sure loves that little old thing don't ...