When comparing Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll House," to Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun," many similarities are seen. They are both struggling with social issues, the thought of wealth, and gender roles inside the household, as well as outside. Although these families represent completely different backgrounds and social classes, they share many of the same characteristics.
             Both of the families portrayed in the plays have their own place in society. The Helmers, from "A Doll's House, are a middle class white family in the late 1800's. Nora Helmer is constantly seeking approval of her controlling husband, Torvald. She is forced to look nice and keep up appearances so society, and Torvald, will approve. At this time in history it was customary that the male was the head of the household and the woman was to obey him, as is seen in this home. On the other hand, the Younger's, an African American family in the 1950's, are very poor and cannot afford any luxuries. When they receive a large amount of money from a settlement, Mama decides to purchase a house for the family. However, this house is located in the all-white neighborhood of Clybourne Park, and its residents are not at all thrilled about their new neighbors. A representative comes to their apartment and offers them more money than the cost of the house to not move in because they feel it will disrupt their community. After awhile they came to an agreement and Walter Lee proudly turned the man away. This is an example of the prejudices of our society.
             Money also has a large part in both of the plays. When the Helmer's were first married they were very poor and were forced to work long hours just to make ends meet. However, Torvald was appointed to a new position at the bank where he will now make enough money to afford a higher standard of living. Before receiving this new job, Torvald was very...