Questions and Answers
What does Stella's statement 'Don't holler at me like that. Hi, Mitch' indicate about her character?
She wants to show that she is a strong character but is submissive to Stanley.
What feeling does Stella's laughter and anxious glance at Blanche suggest?
How does Stella's way of pouring a drink contrast with Blanche's behavior?
Stella is calm while pouring her drink, whereas Blanche talks incessantly.
What does Stella mean when she says 'You'll get along fine together, if you'll just try not to - well - compare him with men that we went out with at home'?
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Stella claims she can hardly stand it when Stanley is away for a week.
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Match the following behaviors to their interpretations:
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Stella initially believes Blanche's past and does not show her weakness.
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What does Stella's reaction to Stanley's comment 'every man is a king' reflect?
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What importance does Stella place on Blanche's outward appearance?
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Study Notes
Stella's Character in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'
- Represents both strength and submission; despite a strong façade, she is controlled by Stanley's dominance.
- Showcases complexity in relationships, embodying both caring for her sister and being submissive to her husband.
Relationship Dynamics
- Interaction with Mitch reveals her efforts to create a welcoming environment while also feeling anxious about her life circumstances.
- Calmness contrasted with Blanche's anxiety indicates Stella's acceptance of her working-class reality and choices.
- Highlights the societal transition from aristocracy to a struggling working class, evident in Stella's urging Blanche to adapt to new standards.
Passion and Dependency
- Exhibits intense love for Stanley, suggesting a deep emotional and physical connection; her life revolves around him.
- Reflects the conflict of love and subservience, where even during conflicts, her emotional attachment to Stanley prevails.
Power Struggles
- Tension between Stella's protective instincts towards Blanche and Stanley's domineering nature illustrates the patriarchal structure of society.
- Evidence of Stanley's cruelty reinforces the notion that only those with negative traits can thrive in their social environment.
Denial and Reality
- Stella's initial disbelief in Blanche's traumatic past showcases her struggle to accept harsh realities, reflecting her own conflicting loyalties.
- The act of turning away symbolizes her internal conflict and foreshadows her eventual compliance with Stanley's authority.
Gender Roles and Societal Commentary
- Initial show of power over Stanley quickly fades, revealing her ultimate role as subservient within a male-dominated society.
- Emphasizes the lack of agency for women, who are often forced to align with male perspectives for survival.
Blanche's Influence and Vulnerability
- Blanche's dependence on external validation and appearance highlights the fragility of her mental state and societal position.
- Stella’s understanding of Blanche’s need for admiration points to the superficial values instilled by their aristocratic upbringing, resulting in Blanche's insecurity.
Conclusion
- Stella serves as a complex character navigating the realities of her time, embodying conflict between her desire for independence and the constraints of her environment.
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Description
Explore the complexities of Stella's character in Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. This quiz examines her relationships, emotional dynamics, and the societal shifts affecting her life. Delve into the themes of strength, submission, and the struggles for power within her marriage to Stanley.
