Awake and Sing by Clifford Odet versus A Raisin in the...

Clifford Odets play, Awake and Sing, and Lorraine Hansberrys play, A Raisin in the Sun, both revolve around the struggle of attaining the American dream during the hardships of a struggling economy and most important the value of a family. By analyzing the main characters, Ralph and Walter, it can be seen that even though they wish to use the insurance money to fulfill their dream they eventually realize that with family they can survive through poverty. Both characters are being weighed down by poverty. This brings them to dream of the life they could live if one was giving a chance to get to first base and the other a chance to open up a liquor store. Ralph doesnt really seem to be interested in his family at first and is†¦show more content†¦Thats to bad, he tells his wife when she wants to talk to him about an abortion. The only solution both characters see to solve their problems is through money and not family. When Moe tells Ralph that his uncle has left him the insurance money and that he now has wings. Ralph has the option to take the money and go with his girl, but realizes he dont want life printed on dollar bills anymore. Also, that his uncle didnt die to fight over money and his family needs the money because times are getting worst more and more families on the street. He finally embraces his family as being the strength to help him get through tough times. Walter also believes money would solve all his families problems, but is not successful in achieving any of it. When his mother invests in the house he gets upset and goes to drink. He never takes into consideration that his son would have his own room and his wife can have the baby. He only thinks of him fulfilling his dream. Later, when his mom gives him money to deposit in the bank for his sisters tuition and to keep whats left over for the liquor store. He spends it all on the investment and gets robed for the money. While his family is being torn apart he feels that he could solve the