Overview of "A Streetcar Named Desire"

Author: Tennessee Williams First Performed: 1947

Setting

• Location: New Orleans
• Time Period: Post-World War II era
• Atmosphere: Gritty, vibrant, sensual, socially tense

Main Characters

• Blanche DuBois: A fragile and troubled woman
• Stella Kowalski: Blanche's sister
• Stanley Kowalski: Stella's husband, represents raw, primal force

Themes

• Sex and Gender Roles: Explores the dynamics and power struggles between sexes
• Mental Instability: Blanche's psychological decline is central to the play
• Mortality: Characters face the harsh realities of life and death

Plot Summary

• Blanche moves in with her sister Stella and brother-in-law Stanley.
• The play explores the clashing dynamics between Blanche's illusions and Stanley's realism.
• The tension builds, leading to dramatic and tragic outcomes.

Cultural Impact

• Significance: Major influence on American theater and culture
• Adaptations: Multiple film and television adaptations, notably the 1951 film by Elia Kazan featuring Vivien Leigh and Marlon Brando

Additional Resources

• Full Play Summary: Available on SparkNotes
• Character Analysis: In-depth look at Stanley Kowalski
• Important Quotes: Explanation of key quotes from the play

Related SparkNotes Resources

• Literature Guides
• Mastery Quizzes
• Flashcards

Subscription Information

• SparkNotes PLUS: Offers ad-free experience, flashcards, quizzes, and AP English Test Prep
• Trial Period: 7-day free trial available
• Annual Plan: $24.99/year

Purchase Options

• Available at Barnes & Noble

Study Break Activities

• Quizzes and interactive content related to literature