Context Flashcards
(10 cards)
What impact did WW2 have on American society relevant to streetcar?
Post WW2 America saw changing gender roles, economic growth, and the decline of old southern values. Veterans like Stanley returned empowered, whilst traditional figures like Blanche felt displaced.
How does Blanche represent the decline of the “Southern Belle”?
Blanche embodies the fading aristocracy of the Old South. Her manners and values clash with modern America, symbolising the fall of genteel society after the Civil War.
How is the American dream portrayed in a streetcar named desire?
Stanley represents the immigrant working-class version of the American dream - assertive and self made - contrasting with blanches lost dreams and reliance on heritage.
What were gender expectations in 1940’s America?
Men were expected to be dominant and women submissive. This play explores toxic masculinity (Stanley) and the vulnerability of women (Blanche/Stella), highlighting the limited roles available.
Why is New Orleans significant in the play?
A multicultural, progressive and vibrant city, New Orleans reflects the “New America”. It contrasts with blanches outdated ideals and symbolises change and diversity.
How does the play reflect 1940’s attitudes to homosexuality?
Allan Grey’s suicide reflects the eras repression of homosexuality. At the time, it was taboo and illegal and the play hints at this indirectly due to censorship.
How did Tennessee Williams’ life influence the play?
Willians had a troubled family life, struggled with mental health and sexuality, and had a sister institutionalised and lobotomised. Blanches fragility and Allan’s storyline mirror his experiences.
How is mental illness represented in Streetcar?
Mental health was misunderstood and stigmatised. Blanches decline shows the lack of support and sympathy for those with psychological trauma in the 1940’s.
How does the play depict the conflict between the Old South and the New America?
Blanche symbolises the agrarian, cultured south, whilst Stanley is industrial, practical and raw. Their conflict mirrors America’s shift from rural tradition to urban modernity.
