Streetcar context Flashcards
What is the Southern Gothic genre?
A popular literary genre, beginning in the early 19th century in response to the loss and destruction of the Civil War. ASND contains many elements of the Southern Gothic, such as a lyrical writing style, a protagonist overwhelmed by torrid longing and psychological disintegration
How did Williams depict the Old South?
“Like Williams, fellow Southern writers such as Lillian Hellman, Edgar Allen Poe and William Faulkner depicted the Old South as defeated as much by its own corruption as by the threat of a newly emerging society” - (Old South vs New America, 2015)
How is ASND a melodrama?
Due to the exaggerated emotions, explosive events and use of theatrical effects. A sub-genre of melodrama is the Southern Gothic, which Streetcar categorically fits into.
How was the play received by contemporary audiences?
The play received a variety of responses when it first appeared on Broadway. Some audiences rejected the bold portrayal of sexuality, morality and desire, but some admired the crude realism of Williams’ work.
What did Robert J Leeney call Tennessee Williams?
An “ultra-realist”
What was the reaction to the first showing?
After the first Broadway staged show, there was reportedly an applause that lasted for 30 minutes, showing the popularity of the play.
What is the American Dream?
The American Dream is an utopian ideal that bypasses the pre-existing social class barriers and involves freedom, independence and equality of independence for all. It centres around the idea that everybody, no matter their background, has equal access to opportunities, as long as they are willing to work for it. The play portrays the American Dream as an elusive and destructive force. The characters’ pursuit of success and happiness often leads to disillusionment and tragedy, highlighting the disparity between their dreams and reality.
Civil War
The Civil War ended in 1865 with the victory of the Northern states. A consequence of this was the alienation of the South as they gained a reputation of racism and poverty. During the Civil War, the Southern states were against the abolishment of slavery as their plantations and main source of income were built upon slave labour. Blanche and Stella’s home, Belle Reve, was a plantation, meaning that their wealth and status was the product of slave labour.
