Scene 3 Quotes Flashcards
Which stage’s directions indicate the amount of power men hold in this society?
[…they are men at the peak of their physical manhood, as course and direct and powerful as the primary colours]
The primary colours are bright, which could be an indication of their importance within society. When it comes to paint, all the other colours are made from the primary colours. This could be a further indication of the amount of power the men hold.
What does Stanley say to the women which portrays the dehumanising way in which he views them?
“You hens cut out that conversation in there!”
This is an extension of the metaphore about the chicken and the hens that was establish in the scene one stage directions.
Stella also responds, saying “you can’t hear us.” This implies that Stanley says this less out of irritation ir annoyance but because he wants to assert control.
Which quote demonstrates that, in spite of getting along with him, Blanche still feels the need to decieve Mitch?
Blanche: “I’m not accustomed to having more than one drink. Two is the limit.”
We know this is a lie because in the first scene, Blanche […pours a half tumbler of whiskey and tosses it down. She carefully replaces the bottle and washes out the tumbler in the sink]
What are 2 things that Blanche says to Mitch which portray her desperation to appear younger?
“I call her (Stella) little in spite of the fact that she’s somewhat older than I”
“I can’t stand a naked light bulb, any more than I can a rude remark or a vulgar action.”
By helping blanche put the “little coloured paper lantern” over the light bulb, Williams could be symbolising the way in which Blanche is leaving Mitch in the dark by lying to him.
What does Stanley do to Stella as soon as she enters the stage which is a further indication of his control and her lack of agency?
[Stanley gives a loud whack of his hand on her thigh]
This reinforces the idea that women are sexualised and objectified under the male gaze.
Which stage direction truly demonstrates Stanley’s dehumanisation and lack of respect for Stella?
[He advances and disappears. There is the sound of a blow. Stella cries out]
