A Raisin in the Sun is a perfect example of dominating cultures marginalizing subordinate cultures in America during the 1950's. The way Lorraine Hansberry uses setting, plot, and characterization proves this point. In the 1950's African Americans were viewed a second-class citizens. The civil rights movement had not yet been put into motion but the need for a change was quite evident.

Hansberry's use of setting plays an important role in showing the major conflicts between characters and society. During the 1950's racism was a social idiosyncrasy that was not dealt with. Although Chicago was a metropolis it was not integrated and The Caucasian community marginalized the African American community by making them feel afraid and unwanted. The Younger family's apartment is a motif that drives the Younger family to change their setting. The choice between moving into a "white" community or staying in their...