A Streetcar Named Desire: Scene 4

Scene 4 displays an emotional aftermath of the previous scene’s violence, allowing characters and audience to reflect on Stanley’s explosive behaviour.
High tension persists; Blanche’s shock and fear regarding Stanley’s violent nature increases, and she pleads with Stella to leave him.
Stanley’s physical dominance is replaced by his psychological control, as Stella succumbs to his persuasions and dismisses the incident.

Stella Kowalski: Her decision to stay with Stanley despite being physically harmed by him displays her deep attachment and somewhat distorted reality.
Blanche DuBois: She is filled with fear and concern for Stella, highlighting her sibling love and projecting her own unsettling past with a possessive husband.
Stanley Kowalski: Even though he is not present for most of Scene 4, the lingering influence he has over Stella speaks volumes of his controlling nature.

Reality vs Illusion: Stella choosing Stanley and dismissing his violent conduct displays the psychological illusion she has conjured to cope with her marriage.
Class and Society: Blanche’s shock at Stella’s acceptance of Stanley’s brutality throws light on the depth of their distinct societal positions and backgrounds.
Gender Dynamics and Power: Stanley’s immense control over Stella showcases the gendered power imbalance prevalent at the time.

“I couldn’t believe her story and go on living with Stanley.” - Stella. This suggests her dependence and ultimate acceptance of Stanley’s brutalities.
“There are things that happen between a man and a woman in the dark, that sort of make everything else seem unimportant.” - Stella. A perplexing quote that illustrates Stella’s complex relationship with Stanley.

Dramatic irony continues to grip the audience; the readers understand the physical danger Stella is in before she does.
Symbolism: The morning after the poker night, the messy, “half-cleared” table symbolises the chaotic aftermath of Stanley’s brutish behaviour.
Foreshadowing: Blanche’s increasing panic and paranoia hints at her impending breakdown.
Use of light as a means of setting the mood; Stella climbs into the light of the upstairs flat before Stanley follows, hinting at his power and dominance.
Scene 4 utilises impactful stage direction to paint a vivid image – “Her eyes go blind with tenderness…” implying Stella’s love for Stanley beyond his violent tendencies.

Be sure to weave and interrelate these points in your essay for a wider and varied examination.