Explain why Walter and not Mama is the protagonist of the play.

The main theme concerns identity, and it is Walter who needs to deal with this issue. The protagonist usually develops in relation to the main conflict, and the conflict concerning identity develops most importantly around Walter, who, as the new "head" of the family, must assume that role of authority within the context of a strong father figure who is dead, the racism of the early 1960s, and a sense of failure in trying to support his family.  Mama knows who she is; she knows how to solve the problems she faces.   She has extraordinary wisdom and compassion, generating our love and admiration.  Walter must struggle, and it is that struggle which pushes much of the plot. forward.