Symbols

Question 1

Streetcar

Answer 1

Predetermined tracks
Desire -> Cemeteries -> Elysian Fields
Role of desire - Drives the play

Question 2

Varsouviana / Polka Tune

Answer 2

Associated with the suicide of ex-husb
Reminds of Blanche’s origins and intolerance
Non-Diegetic - Blanche’s past haunting her
Shows audience inner mind state

Question 3

Blue Piana - other noises of New Orleans

Answer 3

Constant reminder of New America - Diegetic, the vibrant and diverse life Blanche is fighting against, but cannot win

Question 4

Bathing

Answer 4

Blanche often takes long baths to escape the apartment and reality of her situation - forget her issues instead of dealing with them
Men dunk Stanley in the shower to sober him up to face the reality of his actions

Question 5

Paper Lantern

Answer 5

Represents Blanches attempt to hide from reality and keep up this appearance, which is ripped off by Mitch

Question 6

Trunk and other possessions

Answer 6

Represents Blanche’s past - Stanley ransacks and searches every detail, eventually finding the truth and exposing Blanche’s facade
Blanche wears white often - facade of purity