One of the foremost ways Williams dramatises fantasy and reality
to enlighten all of the characters attitudes to life is through an exploration
of the deceitful protagonist character of Blanche DuBois and her refusal to
accept her fate and the situation of those around her. This is expressed
particularly in Scene 1 when Blanche first arrives in Elysian Fields at Stella
and Stanley’s apartment. The boundary between exterior and interior consists of
the two-room apartment shared by Stella and Stanley. The Kowalski’s’ apartment,
unlike the DuBois’ Belle Reve, is not a self-defined world that is inviolable
to the reality of New America. The characters leave and enter the apartment
throughout the entirety of the play, frequently bringing with them the
complications they encounter in the outside environment. For example, Blanche
refuses to leave her prejudices against the working class behind her upon
arrival. Her attempt to veil her
repugnance at the situation is evident from first onset when she boldly states
to Stella; “Explain this place to me! What are you doing in a place like this?
(…) never, never, never in my worst dreams…” Blanche’s disapproval of Stella’s realistic
and ‘normal’ lifestyle allows Blanche to reinforce her own sense of
superiority. She romanticises the situation, envisioning herself as an honest
heroine in a tragic story.
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