In Act 2, Scene 2 of Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun," George Murchison's white shoes serve as a significant symbol. They represent George's assimilation into white culture and his desire to distance himself from his African heritage.
**Text Evidence:**
When George arrives to take Beneatha out, he is described as wearing "white shoes." Beneatha's brother, Walter, sarcastically comments on them, saying, "Well, they’re coming back. They really are. Look here, they’re coming back!" This line highlights Walter’s disdain for George's attempt to adopt white cultural norms.
**Explanation:**
The white shoes symbolize George's efforts to fit into the dominant white society, contrasting with Beneatha's exploration and pride in her African roots. George's character represents the internal conflict faced by African Americans regarding assimilation versus cultural preservation. His white shoes are a visual cue of his acceptance of and aspiration towards a lifestyle that aligns more closely with white, upper-class values, which ultimately creates tension between him and the other characters who are more connected to their African American identity.
This symbolism is crucial to understanding the broader themes of identity and cultural assimilation in the play.
