A Streetcar Named Desire Scene 1
How is Blanche's drinking problem introduced?
Blanche hides her taking a drink and acts like her first drink is when it's offered by her sister.
As the play begins, how is Stanley's primitive nature revealed?
Stanley acts much like a caveman.
What has happened to Belle Reve?
Belle Reve wasn't kept clean and maintained, Blanche couldn't control it.
What is known about Blanche before she speaks her first line?
Blanche is described as petite and purity, coming from wealth.
What dramatic function do Steve and Eunice, as a couple, seem to serve?
Steve and Eunice are a "foil". They are overdrawn as a naggy wife and overbearing husband as a contrast to Stella and Stanley.
How does Blanche react to Stella's apartment?
Blanche acts snobby about the apartment.
What is Blanche's reaction when she reaches Stella's home? How does she react to Eunice's efforts to help her?
Blanche is disappointed in her sister, she doesn't approve. She wants nothing to do with Eunice.
What reason does Blanche give for her arrival in New Orleans?
Blanche is practically homeless, and she claims she had a nervous breakdown and is on her break from work.
What does Blanche learn about Stanley before she meets him?
Blanche learns that he is a "Polack".
When Stella arrives home, Blanche tells her to turn off the overhead light. Why does she say this?
Blanche wants the lights down to cover the fact she had a little too much to drink.
How is Stella described in the stage directions? How does she contrast with Stanley, aside from being female?
Stella is very codependent. You can tell she is the younger sister by the way she acts around Blanche. Stanley is very dominant in the relationship.
When Stanley, Mitch, and Steve return from bowling, what do they agree to do the next day?
The men agree to play a poker game.
What mood do the opening stage directions and setting description create? What effect is created with the music of the "blue piano"?
The stage directions set a very depressing mood, with poverty, slums, etc. The blue piano signifies a depressive feeling.
