Stanley in A Streetcar Named Desire

Study Notes

Stanley in A Streetcar Named Desire

Represents the new middle class in America, embodying hegemonic masculinity and the antagonist role.
Reflects the irrationality of Greek mythology's Dionysus, asserting power and dominance.
Illustrates social mobility through his marriage to Stella, who comes from a higher class.

Meaning of the Name

The name "Stanley" derives from "stone," symbolizing hardness and emotional resistance, traits evident in his character.

Physical Appearance

Described as "strongly, compactly built" and "roughly dressed in blue denim work clothes."
The color blue symbolizes masculinity and his lower-class status compared to Blanche, accentuating class differences.
Identified as a "gaudy seed-bearer," reflecting tastelessness.

Freudian Interpretation

Represents the id in Freudian psychology, driven by basic animal instincts and the pleasure principle.
Demonstrates impulsive behavior, as shown in actions like "stalking furiously" and turning off the radio.

Quotes Reflecting Power and Confidence

Asserts dominance with, "I am the king around here, so don't forget it."
Confidence is encapsulated in the motto, "Be comfortable is my motto."

Societal Dynamics

Challenges authority with "Since when do you give me orders?" showcasing societal expectations and resistance.
His aggressive behavior is depicted through violent stage directions: "hurls his plate to the floor," and "spears the remaining chops."

Critical Perspectives

Critic Robert Brustein characterizes Stanley's sexuality as "violent" yet "free from taint," emphasizing its primal nature.

Lack of Respect

Disparaging remarks like "What do you think you are, a pair of queens?" illustrate his contempt for others.
Displays disregard for consequences with "I don't care if she hears me, let's see the papers."

Exerting Power

References the "Napoleonic code" to emphasize his obsession with power and hypermasculinity.

Aggressive Lexis

Stage directions use words like "stalks," "jerks," "hurl," mirroring his predatory and violent nature.
Action verbs such as "smacked," "smashed," "slammed" underline his aggressive tendencies.

Possessive Nature

Expresses possessiveness with the statement, "I want my baby down here. Stella, Stella!" conveying emotional dependency.

Description

Explore the character of Stanley in Tennessee Williams' play A Streetcar Named Desire. This quiz delves into his representation of the new middle class in America, his role as the antagonist, and his connection to themes of social mobility and masculinity. Perfect for students studying American drama and literature!