‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ by Tennessee Williams

Tennessee Williams’ dramatic play, A Streetcar Named Desire, has become renowned for its vivid characterisation and intricacy of detail when it comes to setting and prop/costume design. As one of my favourite plays to read, I thought I would recommend it to anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure to read it yet.

Set in 1947, the play follows the struggle of protagonist, Blanche DuBois, as she is forced to realise she represents a dying culture, the American south, and must adapt to the aggressive materialism of the new American lifestyle in New Orleans.

The main conflict within the storyline is the battle for superiority between Blanche – a southern belle who lives in a world of delusion and indulges in fantasy – and her brother-in-law, Stanley – a Polish immigrant who is determined to uncover facts and focus on reality. Williams uses these conflicting ideologies and the juxtaposition of Blanche’s femininity versus Stanley’s masculinity to heighten the dramatic tension during their interactions, as well as using costumes and props to contribute to the hostile atmosphere.

The 1951 film adaptation of the play, directed by Elia Kazan, is one of my favourite portrayals of the play from text to screen/stage. Marlon Brando’s excellent performance portraying Stanley has had such an impact on the way I re-read the text, as the Stanley I read now mirrors the likeness of Brando’s rendition of the character. The overpowering nature of Stanley and his reasserting of authority over Blanche (played by Vivien Leigh) is accurately encapsulated by Brando. I would highly recommend watching this film adaptation, alongside reading Tennessee Williams’ play, in order to gain a full comprehension of these complex characters.

Hope you enjoy this reccommendation and brief review. I'd love to hear what you think about the play or film so please leave a comment below.

Helen

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References:

Kazan. E. (1951) A Streetcar Named Desire. Warner Bros.

Williams, Tennessee. 'A Streetcar Named Desire', 1947.