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SCENE 10 - Coggle Diagram
SCENE 10
Analysis
• Imagery and Atmosphere: Williams uses stark and harrowing imagery to create a nightmare atmosphere. The scene opens with Blanche in a “soiled and crumpled evening gown” and “scuffed silver slippers,” which emphasizes her degradation and how far she has fallen from her once-illusionary elegance.
• Blanche’s Reality Slips: Blanche’s wild talk of admirers and her imaginary future with Shep Huntleigh signals that her grip on reality is deteriorating. Her angry outburst and the smashing of the mirror (which is traditionally associated with bad luck) foreshadow the disaster that is about to unfold.
• Initial Attempt at Reconciliation: When Stanley first returns, he makes a seemingly friendly gesture, suggesting that they “bury the hatchet.” However, Blanche’s instant rejection of this offer immediately reestablishes their animosity, further fueling the tension.
• Blanche’s Biblical Reference: Blanche uses a biblical reference, “casting my pearls before swine” (p. 93), which may be interpreted as a personal insult by Stanley. This phrase highlights her perception of herself as a person of value, but it also further alienates her from Stanley, who sees her as beneath him.
• The Shift to Cruelty: As Blanche continues to fabricate stories, Stanley grows increasingly cruel, stripping her of her illusions. His mockery of her pretensions escalates into violent action, and her terror becomes visible. The “grotesque and menacing” shapes closing in around her in the stage directions mirror the real violence she is about to experience.
- Visual and Sound Effects:
• Atmosphere of Menace: Williams employs visual and sound effects to amplify the sense of impending doom. The “grotesque and menacing” imagery suggests that Blanche’s nightmare is materializing. The sounds of violence in the street further contribute to the chaotic and menacing atmosphere, intensifying Blanche’s sense of fear and powerlessness.
- Symbolism and Foreshadowing:
• Breaking the Mirror: The act of breaking the mirror symbolizes Blanche’s self-destruction. The mirror, a traditional symbol of self-reflection, represents the breakdown of her illusions and her inability to reconcile her past with the present. The superstition of bad luck following the breaking of a mirror suggests that Blanche’s fate is sealed, and catastrophe is imminent.
• Stanley’s Dominance: Stanley’s violent behavior toward Blanche reaches its peak in this scene, as he physically overpowers her. His dominance is portrayed as a cruel, almost animalistic assertion of control. Blanche’s attempts at self-defense are futile against his brutality. This scene starkly contrasts with Blanche’s earlier attempts to maintain power through her beauty and charm.
• The Climax: This moment serves as the dramatic climax of the play. It represents the final destruction of Blanche’s fantasies and her total loss of control. Stanley’s violence not only exposes Blanche’s vulnerability but also marks the ultimate rupture between illusion and reality, a recurring theme throughout the play.
Summary:
• Blanche’s Delusions: Blanche, dressed in her finery, drunkenly packs her belongings while speaking wildly to herself. She claims that a wealthy admirer, Shep Huntleigh, has invited her on a cruise and that Mitch has returned to ask for her forgiveness. Stanley mocks her fantasies.
• Stanley’s Return: Stanley returns from the hospital, having been drinking. He dismisses Blanche’s delusions and taunts her.
• Confrontation: Fearing Stanley, Blanche attempts to defend herself by breaking a bottle, but Stanley disarms her and forcibly takes her to the bedroom, raping her.
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