1. How does Ruth feel about her pregnancy? How will it affect each individual member of the family? How will it affect the family as a whole?
2. Why does Asagai say that Beneatha’s hair is “mutilated”? How does Beneatha react to the statement?
3. Why does Beneatha insist “I am not an assimilationist!” Why is her reaction so strong?
4. Look at Mama’s long speech to Asagai. What is Mama attempting to do here?
5. Why does Asagai call Beneatha Alaiyo?
6. At the end of Act I, why is Mama mad at Walter?