THESIS: Williams defines masculinity to be the dominant characteristic of the social hierarchy of 1950s America, one must exert their masculinity in order to get what they want. Stanley, who is naturally dominating and animalistic, experiences great pleasure in being masculine. Mitch, who is naturally docile, learns that he must take on a masculine front to get Blanche to reveal herself, is emotionally punished for it in the end (he feels incredibly guilty over Blanche being taken away). Allan, who is presented to be void of masculinity, is MOST punished for his sexual behaviour, reflecting the nature of 1950s society and Williams personal fears about his own nature.