Wednesday - After viewing the 1961 version of "A Raisin In the Sun" as opposed to the 2008 version carefully analyze the film for its' literary and historical relevance. "A Raisin In the Sun" is an excellent choice for literature, drama, history, and film classes. There is plenty of action, salty dialogue, and a cast of dynamic characters to captivate even the most "video-ed out" teenager. Rebellion against parents and frustration with a lifestyle that brings little gratification are conditions most young people endure. However, beneath the cynical veneer of the adolescent beats the heart of an idealist who wants to believe in dreams that do come true. Through Hansberry's careful craftsmanship, the universal themes of the importance of dreams and the frustration of dreams deferred, the strength of family, the importance of not selling out, the problems of conflicting expectations, the belief that love and trust will win over deceit and selfishness, and the dangers of prejudice and stereotyping are as powerful today as they were nearly four decades ago when she wrote the play. Today's students, often from fractured families, need as much exposure as possible to values taught within a traditional family unit, and Raisin delivers without preaching.
Another reason for using Raisin is its historical value. The play is a provocative reflection of racial attitudes of the 1950s and of today. Prejudice assumes many forms, and Hansberry's characters and the screenplay's visuals bring this theme to life in a way no textbook could.
After viewing this play and seeing the versions of the play, write an essay about one of the underlying themes of the play and how it is still relevant in 2008? This is a written assignment and will be collected in class on Thursday, April 3, 2008.
1 comment:
hi ahdeem here
handed this assignment in last week.
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