Final answer:
In Lorraine Hansberry's 'A Raisin in the Sun', the tension between Ruth and Walter Lee is depicted through movement and interaction, showing the conflict over life insurance money and underlying issues in their relationship.
Step-by-step explanation:
In A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry, the tension between Ruth and her husband, Walter Lee, is presented through the characters' movements and interactions within their confined living space. When characters are in conflict, their movements can reveal their inner turmoil and contribute to the buildup of dramatic tension. The play shows that the conflict in the family largely revolves around the differing dreams and aspirations each member has for the life insurance money.
While Ruth’s movements and reactions often display a sense of weariness and resignation, Walter Lee's movements are more animated and depict frustration and sometimes aggression, reflecting the tensions within their relationship. These physical expressions help the audience grasp the depths of their relationship struggles, particularly as they relate to issues of financial power, gender roles, and life choices.
The movement of the characters on stage adds an extra dimension to the dialogue, which is already rich with subtext. Through body language and physical proximity, we can sense the power dynamics and the emotional distance or closeness between Ruth and Walter Lee. For instance, when Walter Lee encroaches on Ruth’s space in a moment of desperation, or when Ruth withdraws, the audience can palpably feel the strain between them. The stage directions and movement of the characters in Hansberry's play are thus crucial for showcasing the evolving dynamic of their relationship.