Notes on *A Streetcar Named Desire*

Illusion vs. Reality in A Streetcar Named Desire

Blanche's Illusions vs. Reality

• Blanche's illusion: She sees herself as a refined young lady entitled to happiness due to her perceived valuable qualities.
• Reality: She is a desperately lonely, disgraced woman with no future prospects.
• Clash: This idealized self-image clashes sharply with her grim reality.
• Consequences of revealing the past: Once Blanche's past is revealed, she is condemned by other characters:
  • Stanley: Accuses her of