Introduction: since the focal theme of “A streetcar called Desire” is that of integration and adaptation, it is important to analyze the relationship between Blanche and Stella in this essay. Thesis Statement: The function of the relationship between Blanche and Stella is evident: Williams establishes a contrast between them. For example, when Stella says, in scene one, that "the best I could do was make a living, Blanche," Williams invites his audience to interpret the social transformation that Stella has undergone. This very vile image of having to earn a living contrasts significantly with the image of the "pillars" that Stanley introduces in scene eight. Topic sentence: Stella was forced to adapt her lifestyle to fit into this modern, male-dominated society. Theme sentence: Blanche, on the other hand, is immersed in a world of fantasy – or 'make-believe' as she suggests in the seventh scene – where she clings to her past of wealth and comfort. As a result, Blanche cannot integrate: she does not understand this society, in which she cannot adapt, because she is "incongruous", an adjectival choice by Williams that reinforces this sense of disconnection from the brutal real world. Evidence and quotes: A slight tension is visible in the relationship due to this contrast, for example in scene four, where Blanche appeals to her sister that she must have "enough memory" of their dream past ("Reve") in order to find "It's impossible to live with these poker players". The adjective “impossible” is strong here and increases this sense of incongruity that characterizes Blanche; her sister really remembers her past and shows a slight glimmer of hope of returning to it when she says that waiting for Blanche makes her feel "more like home." However, she has moved on to become an active member of her new community. This conflict of ideals creates an almost dramatic tension and almost an irony, as the audience knows well that Blanche does not can and will never be a welcomed and understood figure in society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned" Get an Original Essay Topic Sentence: However, Stella has privileged access to the her sister's personal heritage: she can sympathize with Blanche's past and therefore takes her into account, as she also encourages Stanley to do. Commentary: This is important in dramatic terms as Williams encourages his audience to take comfort in this sympathetic relationship, which is tested and destroyed at the end of the play. Evidence and Citations: For example, in response to Stanley's revelation of Blanche's somewhat shameful past, Stella is quick to defend her. Blanche, Stella claims, "had an experience that killed her illusions." The violent verb "kill" suggests the devastating ordeal Blanche has experienced and thus conveys Stella's knowledge of it. His affection for Blanche is also communicated through her reaction to the birthday party, which Mitch does not come to. Stella describes how upsetting it was to “look at the girl's face and the empty chair.” The noun "girl" serves as a reminder of Blanche's childhood innocence, but also suggests a maternal understanding and bond. However, Williams creates space for Stella's betrayal when she tells Stanley, "there are things about my sister that I don't approve of." The verb “approve” sounds vague and ambiguous, suggesting an uncertain, almost unstable quality of their relationship. The dramatic effect of this is that Stella is presented as a character who does not always understand or sympathize with Blanche. This, if the ending of this play can be seen as tragic, makes Stella's choice to side with Stanley over Blanche regarding the.
tags