Streetcar: Themes of Fantasy vs. Illusion

Question 1

Fantasy vs. Reality - Blanche Scene 5

Answer 1

“And so the soft people have got to – shimmer and glow – put a – paper lantern over the light”

Question 2

What does Blanche Scene 5 show? [5]

Answer 2

• paper lantern = symbol
• torn down later by Mitch and Stanley
• ripping shows the tearing away of the illusion Blanche created for herself
• represents the reality Blanche created of herself = a virtuous woman with manners
• suggests that Blanche takes the truth, as symbolised by the naked light bulb, and blurs it

Question 3

Fantasy vs. Reality - Blanche Scene 9

Answer 3

“I don’t want realism. I want magic!”

Question 4

What does Blanche Scene 9 show? [4]

Answer 4

• Blanche openly rejects reality, she prefers fantasy to cope with trauma
• shows contrast between Blanche and Stanley’s brutal realism
• she wants fantasy and illusion over the harsh brutality of the real world
• she turns to her world of make-believe when she cannot face reality or her shame