Streetcar Context

Question 1

When was this play written?

Answer 1

Around the 1940s (post-World War II)

Question 2

What key themes appear mainly in this play?

Answer 2

• Mental instability
• Toxic masculinity
• Societal expectations (through lens of raw human experiences and relationships)

Question 3

What was the American South?

Answer 3

Recovering from the American Civil War + culture was determined by remnants of issues associated with the slave trade

Question 4

What was the Southern Belle?

Answer 4

• Though fragile and emotionally vulnerable, they strive to maintain an outward facade of refine elegance and femininity as part of their aristocratic Southern heritage
• Ironically, Blanche does not fit typical traits (virgins, meek)

Question 5

What does Stanley and Stella’s marriage reflect?

Answer 5

• Turbulent, abusive nature reflecting issues of power control and domestic violence
• Accustomed to aggressive manner of lower classes in New South

Question 6

Why was postwar American in a tumultuous state?

Answer 6

Grappling with socioeconomic challenges + struggle to maintain traditional institutions vs modernisation

Question 7

What were the impacts from the Second World War?

Answer 7

Societal changes (particularly the rise of working classes) led to power dynamics and central conflict (i.e., between classes, Blanche and Stanley)

Question 8

What were the effects of The Great Depression?

Answer 8

• Economic + societal downturn influenced by desperate circumstances and deep-seated anxieties
• Led to various destructive behaviours and decisions