Essay Questions

‘Identity is mobile: a process not a thing; a becoming, not a being’ ‘Identity is mobile: a process not a thing; a becoming, not a being’ (Simon Frith) In light of this quotation, explore ways in which Williams explores the struggle for identity in A Streetcar Named Desire. ‘At the centre of ‘Streetcar’ is conflict – conflict between traditions and values which is concentrated in battles of character’ In light of this comment, explore Williams’ presentation of ‘battles of character’ in A Streetcar Named Desire. ‘I don’t want realism. I want magic.’ How does Williams present the conflict between reality and illusion in A Streetcar Named Desire? ‘The play is less a lament to the world to which Blanche was born than it is a lament for the dream of it.’ To what extent do you agree with this view of A Streetcar Named Desire?

To what extent is A Streetcar Named Desire a tragedy and Blanche Du Bois a tragic heroine? How does Tennessee Williams make use of the overarching theme of desire within his play A Streetcar Named Desire? How important is the past in A Streetcar Named Desire? Explore the connection between desire and death as developed throughout the play. ‘His plays deal with the theme of self-pity; the persistence of memory that holds people in its grip and will not let them get on with their lives.’ How far do you think this is true in A Streetcar Named Desire? Do you agree that the relationship between Blanche and Stanley, as it develops throughout the play, is one of victim and villain?