Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Flashcards
What type is it?
Play
Who wrote it?
Tennessee Williams
What is the language like?
Naturalistic approach, known as euphony when the speech is raw and natural
What does Brick and Maggie represent?
Maggie represents the new world as she is not traditional
Brick represents the ideals of the American dream
Give quote 1?
“Cat on a hot tin roof”
Analyse quote 1?
It is a metaphor for a Brick and Maggie’s relationship.
The cat is Maggie, who is jumpy and ‘catty’. It also represents her femininity.
Give quote 2?
“I’m not living with you. We occupy the same cage”
Analyse quote 2?
This shows Maggie’s isolation and loneliness, and the fact that she feels trapped by her unrequited love and desire for Brick.
Give quote 3?
“The click I get in my head”
Analyse quote 3?
This refers to Bricks alcoholism. He drinks to block out the mendacity of the family. He is a broken man
Give symbol 1?
“The mantel clock chimes”
Explain symbol 1?
The clock chimes before major revelations, but also symbolises that time is running out for Big Daddy as he is dying.
This is dramatic irony as Big Daddy and Big Mama are the only ones who are unaware of his fate.
Give symbol 2?
“Eerie greenish glow”
Explain symbol 2?
The glow is eerie, which is quite foreboding of death and decay.
However it may be highlighting the theme of wealth and greed as the colour green may symbolise money in America.
This links to the green light in The Great Gatsby.
