The beginning of every novel functions as an introduction to the protagonists and supporting characters, and A Raisin in the Sun is no different. The reader first meets Ruth, who clearly runs the household. She wakes Travis and Walter--without her, they'd likely be late to school and work, and they'd never get to use the bathroom because the neighbors would always have it. Ruth makes her family breakfast even though she is exhausted, which demonstrates her sense of responsibility. Yet in spite of all her hardships, Ruth still finds the joy in everyday life, as we see when she lovingly sends Travis to school.
Travis himself is still innocent, too young at eleven to fully comprehend his family's social and financial disadvantages. "'Mama, this is Friday.' (Gleefully) 'Check coming tomorrow, huh?" (28). Travis is naive and a bit optimistic about the incoming check, while the rest of the family members are stressed over how the money will be used. His innocence represents the American Dream in a sense--the gleam of potential in every young person's eyes, before hope is tarnished by disappointment. A Raisin in the Sun's period-typical misogyny and racial prejudice manifest in Walter Lee. Lines such as "...that just goes to show you what women understand about this world" (33), "That is just what is wrong with the colored woman in this world..." (34), and "...tied to a race of women with small minds" (35) all display Walter's prejudices against women, especially colored women, even though he is married to one. The judgments harbored by society during the 1950s have drilled their way into Walter's head and he regurgitates them, lashing out at his wife when she doesn't agree with him and at his sister Beneatha due to her choice in profession: "Ain't many girls who decide to be a doctor." (36).
The characterizations presented in the opening of this novel will only strengthen as the story progresses, and the themes of oppression and perseverance will be consequently evinced.
Beneatha is also characterized iin the pages 1-40. Her reaction towards the bathroom being occupied displays her impatience. Shortly after she checked the bathroom, she goes back again and "bangs on the door" (36) further showing her impatience. "Really-- would you suggest dawn?" (35). Her comment towards her brother after he told her to get up earlier reveals that she is also sarcastic.
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