A Raisin in the Sun

Question 6
In the play, A Raisin in the Sun, the stage directions and gestures are very important. They help set the tone of the play. There is a scene in the beginning of the play where Ruth is making Walter breakfast. Ruth is angry with Walter. "RUTH (maximum indifference) Did they?" "(Affecting tea-party interest) Is he now? Poor thing" (page 26). Her tone is described in the play and it helps the reader understand her thoughts and feelings. If 'maximum indifference' was not noted, the reader might think she was actually interested in what Walter was talking about. This shows the stress between the relationship of Walter and Ruth. She is angry and she wants him to know she is angry so she changes her tone and then turns on him.