Underlying Theme in A Raisin in the Sun

When analyzing A Raisin in the Sun, it is rather difficult to decipher a single, clear-cut theme that Lorraine Hansberry incorporates into the lives of the Younger family. Family, racial discrimination, and big dreams all seem to be reoccurring matters throughout the play. When all aspects are considered, though, there is an underlying theme in this piece of literature. This is the idea that money is the root of all evil.
The frequent use of money proves to be an essential piece to the plot's puzzle. Money is prevalent from early on in the play and is brought into existence a surfeit amount of times. In the early stages of A Raisin in the Sun, Hansberry allows readers to infer that Walter intends to use the insurance check to invest in his liquor store. "You mean that liquor store that Willy Harris want him to invest in?" (42). This causes friction between the Youngers, and can, in time, lead to the downfall of Walter and his struggling family. Not only does money have a negative effect on the household here, but it also seems to cause conflict when Travis asks for fifty cents for school. Although Ruth tells Travis that they can not afford it, Walter pridefully offers to give him money. The conflicting interests of the couple foreshadows that they will have a rocky relationship throughout the play. When Mr. Lindner offers to give the Youngers a bribe in return for their Clybourne Park residence, the family has split feelings, and Walter is in favor of it. This disagreement has the power to rupture the relationship the Youngers have with each other.
Hansberry makes the use of money a crucial factor in A Raisin in the Sun. This intrinsic reappearance is a significant theme in the play's duration.