CONTEXT Flashcards
When did Williams develop his connection and love with The Old South? How is it clear that he loved The Old South?
- When he spent time with his grandparents.
- Changed him name from Thomas to Tenesee (a state in the Old South) to show his devotion/ love to the Old South.
Where did Williams come out?
- Came out in New Orleans (more accepting of people with different backgrounds.)
- Allowed him to be himself/ develop his artistry.
When was Streetcar published?
- 1947
Context of Williams’ sister
- Was mentally ill/ taken to mental institution due to her mental illness.
What was Southern Belle VS Gentleman Caller?
- Southern Belle: suitable for marriage/ chaste/ polite/ demure.
- Gentleman Caller: would present Southern Belle with flowers/ gifts in order to marry her.
Why did Williams have a lot of sympathy for women?
- Rose and his mother were both mentally ill.
What was Williams’ experience with his father?
- Father = drunken business-man who only cared about making money (NOT A FAMILY MAN.)
- Williams’ could be critiquing this toxic masulinity through characters in the play.
In traditional tragedy, what is downfall of character often brought on by?
- Fate.
- Character’s own actions
- BOTH!!
Significance of the young man Blanche flirts with collecting for “Evening Star” newspaper.
- “Evening star” known to be Venus, named after Greek godess of love .
How did Williams feel after Rose’s lobotomy, how does this link to Stella?
- Felt responsibility and guilt just as Stella does at end of play.
What might Blanche’s obsession with death be influenced by?
- William’s terror of death after a near-fatal childhood illness.
What syntax does Eunice speak in, what does this show?
- Non-standard English.
- Class distinctions in speech.
- “You just did miss her” Pg. 4
What state were most Polish immigrants who came to the US in?
- Uneducated, labourers.
What could’ve influenced Williams’ to chose the name: “Laurel” as hotel Blanche stayed in?
- Laurel is a town close to New Orleans.
