A Streetcar Named Desire is a classic American play written by Tennessee Williams in 1947 It tells the story of a young woman named Blanche Dubois, who has come to New Orleans to stay with her sister and brother-in-law, Stella and Stanley Kowalski. Blanche's presence in the couple's life disrupts their idyllic relationship, as she clashes with Stanley over his rough behavior and ramshackle living circumstances. Through its exploration of human relationships and inner conflicts, the play has become a timeless classic.
1. Analyze Blanche Dubois’ character arc throughout the play, examining how her journey is both a narrative arc and a symbol for some larger commentary about society.
2. How does Tennessee Williams use the elements of performance (lighting, sound, etc.) to make clear the moral and ethical arguments that he is presenting?
3. Examine how the physical space of the Kowalski apartment is used as a metaphor for the characters’ personal relationships.
4. Compare and contrast Blanche and Stanley’s individual relationships with Stella and discuss how they reflect the characters’ own inner conflicts.
5. Explore the various themes of love, power, and loyalty that are explored in the play and discuss how they shape the characters’ decisions.