A Streetcar Named Desire Vocab

Belle Rêve

French for “beautiful dream”; the name of Blanche and Stella’s ancestral home, symbolizing lost grandeur.

Varsouviana

A type of Polish polka music that haunts Blanche, linked to the memory of her husband’s death.

Napoleonic Code

A French legal code referenced by Stanley to justify his right to Stella's inheritance.

Elysian Fields

The street where Stanley and Stella live; an ironic name, as it references the Greek paradise for the dead.

Uncouth

Lacking good manners or refinement; often used to describe Stanley’s behavior.

Refined

Cultured, elegant, and well mannered; how Blanche presents herself.

Brutish

Savagely violent or animalistic; Stanley’s physical and emotional dominance.

Insinuation

A subtle or indirect suggestion, often of something bad or immoral.

Delusion

A false belief or impression, especially as maintained despite evidence; key to Blanche’s character.

Lurid

Very vivid, especially so as to create an unpleasant or harsh effect (used to describe light, dreams, or secrets).

Primitive

Relating to basic, often violent instincts; associated with Stanley’s masculinity.

Dubious

Hesitating or doubting; not to be relied upon (reflects the uncertain nature of truth in the play).

Bohemian

Unconventional in lifestyle or appearance; often associated with artistic or free spirited individuals like some of the characters.

Incongruous

Not in harmony; out of place (used to describe Blanche in the New Orleans setting).

Dissonant

Lacking harmony; often used to describe music, mood, or psychological tension.

Demure

Reserved, modest, and shy; how Blanche attempts to portray herself.

Slander

False and malicious spoken statements; can apply to character attacks within the play.

Bestial

Of or like an animal or animals; used to emphasize Stanley’s aggressive nature.

Sensual

Relating to the gratification of the senses; sexuality is a major theme in the play.

Amiability

A friendly and pleasant manner; contrasts with Stanley’s behavior.