Chapter 9

Question 1

What happens in this chapter?

Answer 1

Mitch tries to see Blanche in the light.
Mitch confronts Blanche.
Blanche confesses her promiscuous behaviour.
Mitch tries to force sex upon her and Blanche screams out terrified.

Question 2

‘Blanche is seated in a tense hunched position’ Analysis

Answer 2

Shows her insecurity and distress.

Question 3

When does the Polka play?

Answer 3

When Blanche is anxious

Question 4

When does the Polka stop playing?

Answer 4

When Mitch arrives indicating she’s hopeful.

Question 5

‘Something’s the matter tonight, but never mind’ Analysis

Answer 5

Blanche is so detached from reality she tries to ignore Mitch’s anger and pretend everything is okay.

Question 6

‘He tears the paper lantern off the light-bulb’ Analysis

Answer 6

Mitch’s violent actions is a symbol of him throwing off the illusions she trapped him in.

Question 7

‘Yes a big spider’ Analysis

Answer 7

Metaphor insinuates Blanche is ashamed of her behaviour and knows it comes from her helplessness.

Question 8

‘Your not clean enough to bring in the house with my mother’ Analysis

Answer 8

Misogynistic and sexist notions as he prioritises himself over Blanche and the further tainting of her image with sex outside marriage.