A Streetcar Named Desire Past Vs Present A Streetcar Named Desire Tennessee Williams

Conflict between values of old world and the new Contrast between Stanley and Blanche Represent different aspects of American society! Stanley represents the American dream – that all men are born equal and can succeed equally. He is associated with the world of stark reality, rooted in the present. conflict Blanche represents the old world, where class and race were important issues. She is associated with a fantasy world, rooted in the past.

The South associated with a landed elite in elegant houses For Tennessee Williams the South stood for strong cultural values whilst the North was greedy and sordid Little reference to WW2 – Williams was more affected by American Civil War

Belle Reve Associated with: Past Death False illusion of pastoral beauty Old America is seen as a beautiful dream in Blanche’s mind - in reality it is based on racism and prejudice.

Blanche represents the faded grandeur of the American past Already a ghost! White clothes Fear of light Detachment of reality

The present Stanley is associated with the present. Stark reality Stanley is associated with the present. New Orleans is associated with: Modern Mixed Open/frank Sexuality/relationships Involvement in WW2 led to Economic boom, rise in immigrants and a mix in classes Privileged/plantation (past) V’s Immigrant in New Orleans

Stanley strips away the illusions embedded in the past Conflict between values of old world and the new! Hypocrisy of old America Vs Vulgarity of new America Unborn baby gives hope to darkness of the play - mixture of Stanley and Stella

Dialogue Sentimental/poetic Abruptness/simplicity Blanche Stanley

Climax Tennessee Williams was influenced by European culture increases dramatic tension through revealing to the audience the degree to which the character’s self image is pretence. The climax comes when the character is forced to confront both past and present simultaneously! Essence of the character is disclosed