The Glass Menagerie Context Flashcards
What is Tennessee Williams’ background?
His father was called Cornelius and he was often absent and struggled with various addictions like gambling and alcohol. His sister, called Rose, was very shy and secluded and dropped out of school. She was then put in a mental hospital where she later got a lobotomy whilst The Glass Menagerie was being written. His mother attempted to give them a normal life, they lived in 16 houses by the age of 15. He changed his name from Tom to Tennessee and got in his first long-term relationship with a man that later died from lung cancer and Tennessee spent his life travelling and writing.
What was the Great Depression?
Caused by the ‘Wall Street Crash’, businesses, factories and banks closed down and unemployment sky-rocketed with nearly 25% of the nation being unemployed. President Roosevelt attempted to make laws to save the economy by adding more roadworks, bridges and airports but the Depression remained until WW2.
What were the Technological Advancements?
The World Fair was made to celebrate technological innovation. Limousines, cars and trains. Although there was a depression, entrepreneurs became millionaires through creations like the Polaroid and the Electric Razor.
How are working women involved?
WW1 gave women opportunities for work and more women became employed as they could be paid less, 1/3 of women were working in the clerical sector. Married women were meant to be supported by their husbands and, therefore, women were more despised than ever. This is true for Amanda and Laura as Laura is single and was sent to college whilst Amanda is stuck since she was married.
What were Tenement Buildings?
Less expensive, more basic apartments built in old sectors of large cities.
How is Travel involved?
President Roosevelt put money into public works and people were working on railways, roads and telephone communications. The Highway Route 66 opened in the 1930s which ran from Chicago to LA. Some made businesses on the side of the road, others lived on the road and others moved using the road.
How is Cinema involved?
With 1/3 of Americans being below the poverty, they looked to public entertainment as a form of escape. The “golden age of Hollywood happened in the 30s”.
