Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" explores stereotypical... Show more
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J
Jane
6/29/2022
English Literature
Stanley and Mitch are stereotypical males
1,202
•
Jun 29, 2022
•
Gender Roles and Patriarchy in 'A Streetcar Named Desire': Essay on Stanley, Mitch, and Blanche
J
Jane
@jane_dggm
Animalistic Portrayal of Stanley
While Stanley exhibits many traits of a stereotypical American male, Williams' characterization goes beyond this stereotype by portraying him as an animalistic predator.
The author uses specific verbs such as "stalks," "prowled," and "crept stealthily" to depict Stanley as a creature that is somewhat sub-human. This portrayal challenges the notion of a typical American male and adds depth to Stanley's character.
Example: The stage directions often describe Stanley's movements using predatory terms, emphasizing his animalistic nature.
Williams' choice to present Stanley in this manner serves to highlight the primal and potentially dangerous aspects of unchecked masculinity in society. This characterization also creates a stark contrast between Stanley and the more refined, albeit flawed, character of Blanche.
Definition: Animalistic - Characterized by or resembling the behavior or qualities of animals, especially in being physical or instinctive.
The animalistic portrayal of Stanley adds a layer of complexity to the play's exploration of gender roles and power dynamics. It suggests that the stereotypical American male ideal may be more savage and less civilized than society would like to admit.
Highlight: The contrast between Stanley's animalistic nature and Blanche's attempts at refinement underscores the clash of cultures and values in the play.
This characterization also serves to intensify the sense of threat and tension throughout the play, particularly in Stanley's interactions with Blanche. It contributes to the overall atmosphere of unease and impending tragedy that permeates "A Streetcar Named Desire."
Mitch's Complex Character
Mitch, while sharing some traits with the stereotypical American male, is presented as a more nuanced character with Southern gentleman qualities and moments of vulnerability.
Quote: "Poker should never be played in a house with women."
Despite Mitch's seemingly protective stance towards women, as evidenced by the above quote, he ultimately conforms to many of the stereotypical male behaviors present in the play. His participation in the poker games and his eventual attempt to take advantage of Blanche sexually demonstrate this conformity.
However, Mitch's character is distinguished from Stanley's in several ways:
- Southern Beau traits: Mitch exhibits some characteristics of a Southern gentleman, particularly in his initial interactions with Blanche.
- Vulnerability: Unlike Stanley, Mitch shows moments of emotional vulnerability, particularly regarding his relationship with his mother.
- Hesitation: While Mitch does attempt to assert dominance over Blanche, he is unable to go to the same extremes as Stanley, suggesting a more conflicted nature.
Highlight: Mitch's character serves as a bridge between the refined world Blanche represents and the raw masculinity embodied by Stanley.
The complexity of Mitch's character adds depth to the play's exploration of masculinity and gender roles. His struggle between conforming to societal expectations of male behavior and his own gentler inclinations reflects the broader tensions present in the society of the time.
Example: Mitch's initial courtship of Blanche contrasts sharply with his later aggressive behavior, illustrating the internal conflict between his genuine feelings and societal pressures.
By presenting Mitch as a more nuanced character, Williams invites the audience to consider the various facets of masculinity and the pressures faced by men to conform to stereotypical roles in 1940s America.
Stanley and Mitch as Stereotypical American Males
Tennessee Williams characterizes Stanley and Mitch as stereotypical American males to varying degrees in "A Streetcar Named Desire." However, neither character fully embodies this stereotype due to Williams' nuanced portrayal.
Highlight: The poker motif symbolizes the exclusion of women and the glorification of male superiority in 1940s American society.
The repeated use of poker as a motif throughout the play serves to illustrate the "game of life" and the exclusion of women from male-dominated spaces. Mitch's statement, "Poker should never be played in a house with women," reveals the underlying misogyny present in their society. This motif reinforces the idea of male superiority and the traditional social hierarchy of the time.
Quote: "And with that crazy crown! What kind of Queen do you think you are!"
Stanley's dialogue near the end of the play further emphasizes the social hierarchy, with his self-perception as "the king around here" highlighting the power dynamics between men and women in their microcosm of American society.
The play also explores how these stereotypical American males respond to feelings of intimidation from women by resorting to physical force. Stanley's domestic abuse of Stella and both Stanley and Mitch's attempts to sexually take advantage of Blanche demonstrate this pattern of behavior.
Vocabulary: Microcosm - A community, place, or situation regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristics of something much larger.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Gender Roles and Patriarchy in 'A Streetcar Named Desire': Essay on Stanley, Mitch, and Blanche
J
Jane
@jane_dggm
Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" explores stereotypical gender roles and their patriarchal effects through the characters of Stanley and Mitch. The play delves into themes of masculinity, femininity, and power dynamics in 1940s America.
Key points:... Show more
Animalistic Portrayal of Stanley
While Stanley exhibits many traits of a stereotypical American male, Williams' characterization goes beyond this stereotype by portraying him as an animalistic predator.
The author uses specific verbs such as "stalks," "prowled," and "crept stealthily" to depict Stanley as a creature that is somewhat sub-human. This portrayal challenges the notion of a typical American male and adds depth to Stanley's character.
Example: The stage directions often describe Stanley's movements using predatory terms, emphasizing his animalistic nature.
Williams' choice to present Stanley in this manner serves to highlight the primal and potentially dangerous aspects of unchecked masculinity in society. This characterization also creates a stark contrast between Stanley and the more refined, albeit flawed, character of Blanche.
Definition: Animalistic - Characterized by or resembling the behavior or qualities of animals, especially in being physical or instinctive.
The animalistic portrayal of Stanley adds a layer of complexity to the play's exploration of gender roles and power dynamics. It suggests that the stereotypical American male ideal may be more savage and less civilized than society would like to admit.
Highlight: The contrast between Stanley's animalistic nature and Blanche's attempts at refinement underscores the clash of cultures and values in the play.
This characterization also serves to intensify the sense of threat and tension throughout the play, particularly in Stanley's interactions with Blanche. It contributes to the overall atmosphere of unease and impending tragedy that permeates "A Streetcar Named Desire."
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Mitch's Complex Character
Mitch, while sharing some traits with the stereotypical American male, is presented as a more nuanced character with Southern gentleman qualities and moments of vulnerability.
Quote: "Poker should never be played in a house with women."
Despite Mitch's seemingly protective stance towards women, as evidenced by the above quote, he ultimately conforms to many of the stereotypical male behaviors present in the play. His participation in the poker games and his eventual attempt to take advantage of Blanche sexually demonstrate this conformity.
However, Mitch's character is distinguished from Stanley's in several ways:
- Southern Beau traits: Mitch exhibits some characteristics of a Southern gentleman, particularly in his initial interactions with Blanche.
- Vulnerability: Unlike Stanley, Mitch shows moments of emotional vulnerability, particularly regarding his relationship with his mother.
- Hesitation: While Mitch does attempt to assert dominance over Blanche, he is unable to go to the same extremes as Stanley, suggesting a more conflicted nature.
Highlight: Mitch's character serves as a bridge between the refined world Blanche represents and the raw masculinity embodied by Stanley.
The complexity of Mitch's character adds depth to the play's exploration of masculinity and gender roles. His struggle between conforming to societal expectations of male behavior and his own gentler inclinations reflects the broader tensions present in the society of the time.
Example: Mitch's initial courtship of Blanche contrasts sharply with his later aggressive behavior, illustrating the internal conflict between his genuine feelings and societal pressures.
By presenting Mitch as a more nuanced character, Williams invites the audience to consider the various facets of masculinity and the pressures faced by men to conform to stereotypical roles in 1940s America.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Stanley and Mitch as Stereotypical American Males
Tennessee Williams characterizes Stanley and Mitch as stereotypical American males to varying degrees in "A Streetcar Named Desire." However, neither character fully embodies this stereotype due to Williams' nuanced portrayal.
Highlight: The poker motif symbolizes the exclusion of women and the glorification of male superiority in 1940s American society.
The repeated use of poker as a motif throughout the play serves to illustrate the "game of life" and the exclusion of women from male-dominated spaces. Mitch's statement, "Poker should never be played in a house with women," reveals the underlying misogyny present in their society. This motif reinforces the idea of male superiority and the traditional social hierarchy of the time.
Quote: "And with that crazy crown! What kind of Queen do you think you are!"
Stanley's dialogue near the end of the play further emphasizes the social hierarchy, with his self-perception as "the king around here" highlighting the power dynamics between men and women in their microcosm of American society.
The play also explores how these stereotypical American males respond to feelings of intimidation from women by resorting to physical force. Stanley's domestic abuse of Stella and both Stanley and Mitch's attempts to sexually take advantage of Blanche demonstrate this pattern of behavior.
Vocabulary: Microcosm - A community, place, or situation regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristics of something much larger.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user