Step 1: Read p. 1-13 of, The African American Great Migration and Beyond
Step 2: Read: Harlem by Langston Hughes
Step 3: Watch: A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzfgwxENvLk&t=1171s
Step 4: Answer the Question
Questions
The Great Migration and Beyond
- Of the three traditional demographic processes described by Tolnay, which are social and which are biological?
- Why is Tolnay surprised that one of the three processes is studied the least?
- What are some important factors that Tolnay describes as influencing the potential destinations of southern migrants?
- What is your opinion on why one particular demographic process is studied the least?
- What factors helped determine to which cities migrants went? What is ethnogenesis and what role did it play in destination selection play?
A Raisin in the Sun
- The play is prefaced by a Langston Hughes poem. How does the play illustrate the theme of the poem?
- How is Beneatha different from other Younger family members?
- How is the theme of assimilation treated in the play?
- In what ways is Hansberry challenging stereotypes of African Americans in the play?
- Why do you think Mama changes her mind and gives Walter the insurance money?
- Why does Mrs. Johnson say that the Youngers are proud?
- What does the new house signify to each of the Youngers?
- Look closely at Karl Lindner’s speech when he talks to the Youngers. What do you notice about the way he uses language?
- The play was written and produced over 40 years ago. To what extent do you think that conflicts and issues presented in the play are still relevant?
