Multiple Interpretations of a Text
Different interpretations of source texts emphasize different details. Analyzing which aspects are more important can lead to deeper understanding and appreciation of the author's intent. A Raisin in the Sun has been reproduced many times in many different forms, including film and stage productions.
To complete this activity:
1. Reread the passage from the play.
2. Answer the first two questions.
3. Watch the movie clip.
4. Watch the stage production.
5. Answer questions 3-7.
Passage pages: 74-77
Movie Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84EAbPDRQ4k
Stage production 1:37:30 - 1:44:24: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGPH2fLfwfE&t=442s
Book questions:
1. Why is this passage so important? Use details from the story to support your answer.
2. Describe each of the Younger's feelings toward Linder as he starts his speech on page 76.
Now watch the two clips:
3. In the play (book), Linder is cast as clearly thinking himself superior to the Youngers. How is he portrayed in each of the two interpretations?
4. What other differences do you notice in the movie and stage interpretations?
5. In what ways do they stay true to the source text?
6. What do you think Hansberry's intent was for writing and publishing this play?
7. How does each of interpretations match up with Hansberry's intent?
To complete this activity:
1. Reread the passage from the play.
2. Answer the first two questions.
3. Watch the movie clip.
4. Watch the stage production.
5. Answer questions 3-7.
Passage pages: 74-77
Movie Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84EAbPDRQ4k
Stage production 1:37:30 - 1:44:24: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGPH2fLfwfE&t=442s
Book questions:
1. Why is this passage so important? Use details from the story to support your answer.
2. Describe each of the Younger's feelings toward Linder as he starts his speech on page 76.
Now watch the two clips:
3. In the play (book), Linder is cast as clearly thinking himself superior to the Youngers. How is he portrayed in each of the two interpretations?
4. What other differences do you notice in the movie and stage interpretations?
5. In what ways do they stay true to the source text?
6. What do you think Hansberry's intent was for writing and publishing this play?
7. How does each of interpretations match up with Hansberry's intent?