Read this excerpt from Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun in which Ruth and Mama discuss Walter's refusal to take Lindner'
s money: MAMA. (Quietly, woman to woman) He finally come into his manhood today, didn't he? Kind of like a rainbow after the rain . . .
RUTH. (Biting her lip lest her own pride explode in front of MAMA) Yes, Lena.
(WALTER'S voice calls for them raucously)
WALTER. (Off stage) Y'all come on! These people charges by the hour, you know!Which statement most accurately describes the aesthetic impact of this excerpt?
A. By showing Mama more vulnerable than she has been presented earlier in the play, the reader feels disappointed by her weakness.
B. By having Ruth feel pride toward Walter after her initial indifference, the author leaves the reader feeling satisfied with their relationship.
C. By having Walter take charge on moving day, the author restores his rightful position as the "man of the house."
D. By Mama's use of the simile "like a rainbow after the rain" to describe Walter's action, the author shows that Walter will leave soon.
Answer: B. By having Ruth feel pride toward Walter after her initial indifference, the author leaves the reader feeling satisfied with their relationship.
Walter has been a complicated character throughout the play. Unhappy with his financial situation, he is desperate to improve it, at the same time as he is ashamed because of his inability to provide for his family. This leads him to make bad financial decisions that only leave the family in a worse situation. This has also taken a toll on his relationship with Ruth. However, in this scene, we see Walter has changed, and Ruth has noticed. She is extremely proud of him, which implies that their relationship will survive.
