Paper Summary:

This paper contends that the tragedy of "Streetcar Named Desire" is down to the failed relationship between Blanche and Mitch and that exclusively the tragedy relies on several facets of abuse in order to produce a genuine catharsis of pity and sympathy.The paper also discusses how these facets of abuse rely on Stanley's harassments as well as Blanche's inability to conform, how there is no middle ground between Stanley and Blanche and how, if there had been, perhaps Blanche's chances with Mitch would have been more fruitful. The paper contends that Blanche's failed relationship with Mitch represents the final straw from which the rest of the tragedy of "Streetcar Named Desire" unfolds, and from which she can never recover having felt that she was so close to a solution.

From the Paper:

"The relationship between Mitch and Blanche is represented as her salvation; he's different "to the others", more "sensitive", and so appeals to Blanche's similar need for an understanding soul mate, someone who adheres to her idea of a 'southern gentleman' which is important because of the ideals Blanche bases her needs on; that of a compassionate partner. Examples in Mitch of his southerly gentlemen traits his bowing to her at the end of scene V inducing an "interest" in Blanche as he offers her flowers, and applies a politeness that contrasts so gravely with Stanley's treatment of her. Blanche seeks a partner who can satisfy her sexual appetite and offer her support. Indeed in Elia Kazan's 1951 production of Streetcar Named Desire, Blanche and Stella go to find Stanley at the bowling alley, and as they are seeking him out, her eyes follow the males there seductively. This pilgrimage of sorts to find a partner is in my opinion hinting at her true character; a tormented soul seeking typical things. Blanche treats men as objects of passion that she may acquire at will, indeed this is one interpretation of Blanche's hamartia; a trained seductress, who frequented the local soldiers' barracks back at her home. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• The Selected Letters of Tennessee Williams: 1945-1957
• "Streetcar Named Desire Named Desire - a critical discussion of the rape scene", published November 2000, E-Magazine, Issue 10

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