In Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun," Walter is the protagonist and central character. He is a complex and multifaceted individual, struggling with issues of identity, masculinity, and financial hardship.
At the beginning of the play, Walter is introduced as a disappointed and frustrated man. He works as a chauffeur and feels trapped in his low-paying job, unable to provide for his family or fulfill his dreams. He is also struggling with his identity as a black man in a society that often treats him as inferior and denies him opportunities.
As the play progresses, Walter's character undergoes a transformation. When his family is given a $10,000 insurance payout following his father's death, Walter sees an opportunity to break free from his financial struggles and fulfill his dream of owning a liquor store. However, his plans are met with resistance from his wife, Ruth, and his sister, Beneatha, who disagree with his business venture and believe it is not a legitimate way to provide for the family.
Despite the opposition, Walter persists in his pursuit of the liquor store, even going so far as to borrow money from a man named Willy Harris, who he believes can help him secure the necessary financing. However, this decision ultimately leads to disaster, as Willy Harris takes the money and runs, leaving Walter in debt and without any means to achieve his dream.
Through this series of events, Walter learns a valuable lesson about the importance of integrity and honesty. He realizes that his desire for financial success cannot come at the expense of his values and the well-being of his family.
In the end, Walter finds a sense of purpose and fulfillment in his role as a provider for his family. He decides to invest the insurance money in a down payment on a new home in a predominantly white neighborhood, a brave and risky decision that ultimately brings the family closer together and helps them to realize their own strength and resilience.
Overall, Walter is a complex and dynamic character who undergoes significant growth and development throughout "A Raisin in the Sun." Through his struggles and triumphs, he serves as a relatable and poignant representation of the challenges and triumphs of the African American experience in mid-20th century America.