Gabriel's Journal #1: A Streetcar Named Desire

The first three scenes of A Streetcar Named Desire pose several problems common in a play. What’s most interesting is that they become so apparent early on in the play, leading one to think that the play will reach its climax in the middle and end happily as many plays do. Stella’s sister Blanche and Stanley’s relationship with Stella bring issues similar to those in Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle. Blanche’s arrival in New Orleans seems to resemble that of Jurgis’ in-laws who arrived to live with him, almost like a burden to the families. Alcoholism appears to be a problem for Stanley in the third act, drunkenly beating Stella after becoming angry over a small feud. Blanche too might have a problem with alcohol, sneaking a shot of whiskey while waiting for Stella and later asking Stella for alcohol.
The pregnancy of Stella has an effect similar to Jurgis when his wife becomes pregnant being that his love for his family, in this case his wife overtakes him, embracing Stella outside the apartment after getting into a fight. The issue of wealth also becomes apparent in the play. Stanley’s confrontation of Blanche over her family’s estate shows his concern for his financial well being as well as his wife, as she too has some ownership over the estate. Although things were settled between Stanley and Blanche, I think there’s still a tension between them, particularly over Stella. With Stanley’s alcohol driven actions, Blanche may start to become more defensive of her family’s “purity” and not want immigrant blood in their family tree.