WAEC Literature in English 2019 Theory — Question 19

Model answer

Points to develop: Statement of the central theme of the play; Character identification; Asagai's intelligence and charm; Asagai's role in the play; Conclusion. The play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry records the treatment of the blacks in the South Side Chicago in the US of the 1930s through 1950s. The play addresses the theme of racial discrimination and its impact on an African American family: the Youngers. Asagai stands as cultural identity in the play. Joseph Asagai is a young African man having his education in America. He is Beneatha's preferred boyfriend. Asagai is proud of his African heritage: 'Nigeria is my country, Yoruba is my tribal origin,' he tells Mama. Asagai engages in intellectual discourse with Beneatha about Africa and her views of the wider world. He worms his way into the favour of the Youngers. With his engaging personality, he is able to discuss issues with Beneatha without rancor; he is able to criticize her hairstyle. He has an idealistic view of Africa: 'I will show you mountains and stars; and give you cool drinks and teach you the old songs and the way of our people.' Asagai educates the Younger family about wider issues; he helps to widen their horizon. Asagai also serves as a counselor and comforter when the family is under stress from Walter's losing the rest of the insurance money. He is a timely lover of Beneatha. He replaces George Murchison as future husband of Beneatha. Asagai is a strong supporter of Beneatha and helps her to hold on to her dream of becoming a medical doctor with or without assistance from her family. Asagai is a young Yoruba man from Nigeria. Intelligent, charming, polite and kind, he is idealistic and proud of his African heritage. He is instrumental in making Beneatha and her family become aware of their African heritage.