Quote 28
MAMA
Walter Lee – it makes a difference in a man when he can walk on floors that belong to him… (2.1.170)
Lena hopes that owning a house will give Walter a sense of pride. In her mind, it will give him something in the world that is truly his. Of course, Walter sees this as an unwise investment. He'd rather invest in a business than a home.
Quote 29
MAMA
When the world gets ugly enough – a woman will do anything for her family. The part that’s already living. (1.2.235)
According to Mama, a woman's main priority is to secure the future of her existing family, even if it means sacrificing other lives. And aborting an unborn baby is a huge sacrifice for Ruth.
Quote 30
MAMA
It ain’t much, but it’s all I got in the world and I’m putting it in your hands. I’m telling you to be the head of this family from now on like you supposed to be. (2.2.113)
Mama tells Walter that it's time he lead the family. It seems that Lena is definitely old fashioned in her view of gender roles (no wonder she doesn't understand Beneatha). Lena feels guilty that he hasn't let Walter take his place as the "man."