A Streetcar Named Desire: Symbolism

Symbolism

Understanding symbolism: Symbolism is a literary device where an author uses an object, event, or character to represent an idea or concept beyond its literal meaning. Understanding the symbolism in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ can assist in a deeper analysis of the play’s themes and characters.

Key Symbols

The Streetcar: The titular ‘Streetcar Named Desire’ symbolises the journey of the characters, particularly Blanche, through their desires and fantasies. It also represents the path to destruction for those who cannot control their desires, such as Blanche.
Light and Darkness: Light in the play often symbolises truth and reality, while darkness represents illusion and deception. Blanche’s constant avoidance of bright light signifies her fear of reality and her preference for illusions.
The Varsouviana Polka: The music that only Blanche hears symbolises her descent into madness and her guilt over her husband’s suicide. It plays at key moments when Blanche is reminded of her past.
The Paper Lantern: The lantern that Blanche puts over the bare light bulb in the Kowalski flat symbolises her attempts to mask the harsh reality of her situation with the illusions she creates.

Relevance of Symbols

Character Insight: Symbols can offer insight into the mindsets and motivations of the characters. For example, Blanche’s avoidance of light underlines her denial of reality and her past.
Theme Exploration: Symbols can intensify and deepen the exploration of major themes in the play, such as the theme of reality versus illusion illuminated by the usage of light and darkness.
Plot Development: Symbols can be used to forge connections and foreshadow events in the plot. For example, the recurring Varsouviana Polka foreshadows Blanche’s mental collapse.

Analysing the use of symbolism in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ can aid in the identification of deeper meanings and connections within the play. Look beyond the literal and consider what various elements might represent or imply.