Lorraine Hansberry and the drama of human affirmation

• Main Author: Miller, Katherine L
• Format: Others
• Published: DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center 1973
• Online Access: http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/3472; http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4995&context=dissertations

The primary intent of this thesis is to explore Lorraine Hansberry's dramatic efforts in order to illuminate some aspects of her artistic endeavor, with particular emphasis on the discovery of her assessment of human nature. An attempt has also been made to relate that assessment to her literary creed. The plays are analyzed through a discussion of plots, characters and themes. An examination of these three elements of the drama shows how Miss Hansberry used this medium as a vehicle for affirming the human possibilities and positive potential of all mankind. The primary sources were Lorraine Hansberry's five plays: A Raisin in the Sun, The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window, Les Blancs, The Drinking Gourd, and What Use are Flowers? Secondary sources included critical reviews of the stage production of the plays and articles written about Miss Hansberry as an artist.