Conflict Between Stanley and Blanche in “A Streetcar Named Desire”
A Streetcar Named Desire is a play that consists of various conflicts and controversial dilemmas. Almost every character is used to depict a particular force or life value, which may be opposed to other powers and principles. Blanche and Stanley are central characters of the play, and hence, they depict a number of different conflicts and may convey a variety of messages. These conflicts include confrontations between men and women, life values, and even social statuses. Williams uses Blanche as an impersonation of the old American South, whereas Stanley represents an immigrant who is very proud to be an American. As already mentioned, there is a significant number of larger conflicts illustrated by the confrontation between Blanche and Stanley. However, I believe that the conflict of life values and beliefs may be central as it covers and depends on all the differences between social groups these characters represent.
Even though the play has a relatively dramatic ending, I think that the primary idea Williams wanted to convey is the necessity of accepting other people regardless of their life choices and priorities. Moreover, it is critical not to go to extremes, which may lead to dire consequences. The culmination of the conflict comes when Stanley rapes Blanche, and she loses her mind (Williams 92). Although some ideas may have been considered revolutionary at the time, Williams impersonates these ideas using characters that appear realistic. Such an approach may allow people to associate themselves with the characters or their actions, and consequently, understand and accept conveyed messages. A Streetcar Named Desire shows a fast-changing world in which people are not always able to timely adapt to emerging consequences.
Work Cited
Williams, Tennessee. A Streetcar Named Desire. Alberta Education, 2021.