Character Quotes - Scene 1

Question 1

“Her appearance is *incongruous to this setting.” - stage direction, Blanche

*out of place

Answer 1

Blanche being “incongruous” with Elysian Fields shows how, right from the start, she doesn’t belong there. It shows the beginning of her trying to find a way to fit into the life Stella has created for herself.

Question 2

“…pours a half tumbler of whiskey and tosses it down.” - stage direction, Blanche

Answer 2

This quote disproves Blanche’s claims later in the scene as well as throughout the entire play that she doesn’t drink often. “tosses it down” shows how she has become comfortable with drinking hard liquor without it having much of an effect on her, this indicates what is later revealed to be Blanche’s alcohol problems.

Question 3

“I won’t be looked at in this merciless glare!” - Blanche

Answer 3

This quote shows Blanche’s insecurities within herself and her obsession with looking her best at all times. She won’t let anyone, not even her sister who has likely seen her through the best and worst of times see her with a hair out of place.

Question 4

“Death is Expensive, Miss Stella.” - Blanche

Question 5

“No I, – rarely touch it.” - Blanche

Question 6

“I’m afraid I’m – going to be sick!” - Blanche

Question 7

“[Stella complies reluctantly]” - Stage directions, Stella

Question 8

“I can hardly stand it when he is away for a night…” - Stella

Question 9

“Blanche! You be still! That’s enough!” - Stella

Question 10

Stanley

Answer 10

“He heaves the package at her.” - Stage directions

Question 11

Stanley

Answer 11

“Since earliest manhood the centre of his life has been pleasure with wowmen, the giving and taking of it…” - Stage directions

Question 12

Stanley

Answer 12

“power and pride of a richly feathered male bird among hens.” - Stage directions