A Raisin in the Sun is a novel written by Lorraine Hansberry. It reflects on a man named Walter Younger and his family who are dealing with hard times, dreams and self-discipline. The novel shows how he matures mentally from a boy to man.
In the beginning Walter is selfish angry man. He is very angry when he tries to talk to Mama, Ruth and Beneatha. He feels as if no one understands him or feelings. He describes himself as "a man tied to a race of women with small minds (17). Even though Walter thinks no one understand him he his doesn't comprehend them well. When Walter is talking to Mama he doesn't understand why she won't support him in the dream of the liquor store. Mama has morals that she cares about very deeply. Walter also has morals, but he is so money crazy he can't even see what is right or wrong. Walter also shows greediness and selfishness by not wanting Beneatha to pursue her education and become a successful doctor. Walter comments hurt Beneatha "Who the heck told you you had to be a doctor?"(20). Beneatha is upset and screams at a man who is now materialistic. Walter only thinks of himself and money.
Things start to change and see things differently as the novel progresses. Mama gives Walters $6500 dollars. She tells him exactly what to do with it; put $3,000 in the bank for Beneatha and $3,500 is yours to do whatever you want. Walter was surprised and question Mama, "You trust me like that?" She simply replies, "I ain't never stop trusting you (80). This is a big responsibility for Walter. Mama finally lets Walter go. Instead of doing what his mama told him to do he gives the money to someone who then steals it. This is one of the greatest things that has ever happen to the family. This puts an even bigger responsibility on Walter, he know has to work to get back Beneatha's money. Another sign that Walter is changing is when Ruth decides to get an abortion.