Characterization Of Blanche Monologue

Williams’ characterization of Blanche as a character of many layers and different emotions is particularly evident in this scene as he presents her in different lights through different mediums. In this scene, Blanche is presented as afraid. This effect is achieved through Blanche’s actions, which are revealed to us by stage directions. “She looks fearfully after him” this explicitly unveils to the audience Blanche’s reaction to Mitch’s arrival as well as his attitude. The adverb “fearfully” adequately captures Blanche’s true feelings; passing across the idea of fear to the audience. In addition to this effect, the phrase “after him”, directs Blanche’s emotion to a particular person and the audience understands that Blanche’s reaction is due to Mitch’s presence. However, it isn’t just in one instance that we see this fearful response; the passage is littered with actions that give evidence of anxiety, reiterating the point that she does not feel secure. Actions such as her “frightened gasp” show her instability and insecurity, the word “frightened” shows her fear, while “gasp” present her surprise. The audiences is then able to
The stage directions help to give an idea of the gravity of this infatuation by stating “she is so excited her breath is audible as she dashes out” This excitement follows the news that Mitch has arrived. This is measured by the fact that “her breath is audible”. This is a subconscious act, one that she did not think to do before she did it. This lack of control reveals to the audience the degree of her investment in Mitch; she is now no longer in control of herself and her actions. The phrases “dashes out” increase the pace of the scene from the slow start it had with Blanche’s depressing attitude. The sudden change of action from “hunched” to “dashed” shows the effect Mitch has on Blanche and how much he can change