What do you think Oedipus Rex and A Raisin in the Sun imply about Sophocles’ and Lorraine Hansberry’s cultural identities?
http://litmuse.maconstate.edu/litwiki/index.php/Oedipus_Rex
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/raisin/context.html
What do you think?
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1170334128
To understand what Oedipus Rex by Sophocles and A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry imply about their cultural identities, we need to analyze the texts and explore the cultural and historical context in which these plays were written.
Oedipus Rex is a tragedy written by Sophocles, a playwright from ancient Greece. The play explores the themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of one's actions. Sophocles was heavily influenced by Greek cultural and religious beliefs, particularly the concept of hubris (excessive pride) and the idea that human actions can lead to disastrous consequences.
In Oedipus Rex, the cultural identity of Sophocles is evident in the portrayal of the Greek society and its beliefs. The play reflects the importance of divine intervention and the belief in an unavoidable fate, which was deeply ingrained in ancient Greek culture. It also emphasizes the consequences of defying or challenging the gods, highlighting the concept of accountability and moral responsibility.
On the other hand, A Raisin in the Sun is a play written by Lorraine Hansberry, an African American playwright. The play examines the experiences of an African American family living in Chicago's South Side during the 1950s. It explores themes of racism, the American Dream, and the African American struggle for equality and identity.
A Raisin in the Sun portrays the cultural identity of Lorraine Hansberry by reflecting the experiences and challenges faced by African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. The play highlights the discrimination, poverty, and limited opportunities faced by the Younger family, as well as their dreams and aspirations for a better life. Through the characters and their dialogue, we see the cultural pride, resilience, and determination of African Americans during this era.
In summary, both Oedipus Rex and A Raisin in the Sun reflect the cultural identities of their respective playwrights. Sophocles' play embodies the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society, while Hansberry's play depicts the experiences and struggles of African Americans in mid-20th century America. To fully understand these implications, it is essential to study the cultural and historical contexts in which these plays were written.