2A Streetcar Named Desire

Questions on Scene 6

1. This scene reveals to us Blanche’s sexual double standard. Explain what this double standard is with close reference to the text and what does this reveal about Blanche?

2. “And then the searchlight which had been turned on the world was turned off again and never for one moment since has there been any light that’s stronger than this — kitchen — candle”. Blanche tells Mitch about her husband and her first love. She talks about this using symbolic imagery. Explain this symbolic imagery and analyse its effect.

3. Using SEAL explain the symbolic nature of music and sound effects in this scene.

4. This scene highlights the themes of death and desire. In what way do we learn that one can lead to the other and what does this imply to us about the outcome of the pay? Identify a quote from the play that supports this.

5. ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ appears to be a classic tragedy in that there appears to be a chance for redemption at this point (the middle) of the play. What is this chance of redemption and what do you think may ruin this? Explain your thoughts using SEAL.

6. What do we know about Mitch? Use SEAL to examine a character point about Mitch.

7. “You need somebody. And I need somebody, too. Could it be — you and me, Blanche?” There is an optimistic note to the end of this scene. Why we optimistic, what does this are mean for Blanche and what does this quote tell us about Mitch and Blanche?

8. “The first time I laid eyes on him I thought to myself, that man is my executioner!” What is the significance of this quote? What may this foreshadow? 9. Blanche appears keen to marry Mitch but in many ways he is disappointing. Explain the ways in which Mitch is a disappointment to Blanche and how do we know this?

10. Based on what you know so far, what would you predict for the rest of the play? Explain with close reference to the text.