2. A Streetcar named Desire Scene 2 Themes

3. Scene 2 In this scene Stanley’s antagonism towards Blanche will grow Drama Terms Blanche is the protagonist (main character) Stanley is the antagonist (in conflict with the main character)

4. Conflict Blanche lays her “cards on the table” – she tells Stanley what happened about Belle Reve Stanley is concerned about “The Napoleonic Code” – he should have had a joint share in whatever Stella was owed through the sale This fuel’s Stanley’s anger and sets in motion the conflict which will ultimately lead to Blanche’s downfall A sexual conflict / tension begins between them

5. Sexual Conflict Blanche comes out of the bathroom in a red satin robe She sprays herself with her atomizer; then playfully sprays him with it. He seizes the atomizer and slams it down on the dresser. “If I didn’t know that you was my wife’s sister then I’d get ideas about you!” “Such as what?” “Don’t play so dumb. You know what!”

6. Blanche’s baths: symbolism Blanche takes frequent baths – a habit which creates tension between her, Stella and Stanley There is symbolism in this obsessive habit The need for purification from guilt The death of her husband and her sexual misdeeds