How is Troy’s Conflict at the Sanitation Department Resolved?
In the gripping narrative of “A Raisin in the Sun,” Lorraine Hansberry presents a poignant story of the African-American family, the Youngers, facing numerous challenges in a racially segregated society. Among the many conflicts faced by the family, one particular conflict at the sanitation department stands out as a pivotal point in the story. This article delves into the resolution of Troy’s conflict at the sanitation department, exploring the ways in which the family overcomes this adversity.
Troy Maxson, the protagonist and head of the Younger family, is employed as a sanitation worker in the 1950s. His job at the sanitation department is not only a source of income but also a representation of his pride and self-worth. However, when a new supervisor arrives, he introduces a new system that disrupts the daily routine of the sanitation workers, leading to conflicts and resentment among them.
The conflict at the sanitation department is primarily driven by the new supervisor’s policies, which include reducing the number of workers and increasing their workload. This results in a decrease in Troy’s pay and a sense of injustice among the workers. The conflict intensifies when Troy’s friend and coworker, Bono, is unfairly terminated from his job due to his association with a union that aims to improve working conditions for sanitation workers.
In the face of this conflict, Troy’s character is tested as he grapples with his own sense of pride, loyalty, and responsibility towards his family. Initially, Troy is resistant to joining the union and fighting for better working conditions, as he fears it may affect his own job security. However, his wife, Walter Lee, encourages him to take a stand for his rights and the rights of his fellow workers.
The resolution of Troy’s conflict at the sanitation department comes in a dramatic twist when he decides to join the union and fight for the rights of the sanitation workers. This decision is a significant turning point in the story, as it highlights Troy’s growth as a character and his willingness to put his family’s needs above his own pride.
With the support of his family, Troy attends a union meeting and becomes an active member of the sanitation workers’ union. The union begins to gain momentum, and workers across the city join the fight for better working conditions. The conflict at the sanitation department reaches a climax when the workers go on strike, demanding fair wages and improved working conditions.
The resolution of the conflict is ultimately achieved when the city’s mayor, faced with the threat of a prolonged strike and public pressure, agrees to negotiate with the union. As a result, the sanitation workers secure better wages, improved working conditions, and the promise of job security.
In conclusion, the resolution of Troy’s conflict at the sanitation department in “A Raisin in the Sun” is a testament to the power of unity, courage, and perseverance. Through the struggle and eventual victory of the sanitation workers, the story highlights the importance of standing up for one’s rights and fighting against injustice. The resolution of this conflict not only benefits the characters involved but also serves as a powerful message to the audience, reminding them of the strength found in collective action and the fight for equality.
