A Streetcar Named Desire: Interpreting Stanley
Last updated: 15/11/2023
Contributor: Rhiannon Glover
A-level English Literature students consider 18 statements about Tennessee Williams' portrayal of Stanley in A Streetcar Named Desire. In this discursive activity, they decide if they agree/disagree or are not sure.
The statements explore all aspects of Stanley's characterisation, such as:
- Williams presents a tender and vulnerable side to Stanley.
- Dominance and control of his territory is important to Stanley.
- Stanley is presented as a Darwinian survivor: his instinct to pass on his superior genes explains all of his behaviour.
- The fact that Stanley emerges triumphantly leaves us with an uncomfortable sense that violence and power will always win over kindness and culture.
They then plan an essay question considering Williams' presentation of Stanley, based on a selection of statements.
An extract from the resource:
Read the essay question below:
‘Williams’ presentation of Stanley reminds us that beneath the veneer of civilisation, society is brutal and violent.’ How far do you agree with this statement?
- Choose the five statements above that you think would be most useful in answering this question.
- Find at least three quotations to support each one of the statements above.
- You are now ready to answer this essay question.
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