Streetcar Named Desire Appearance Vs Reality Essay

When looking at the differences between appearance and reality, it relates back to something called metaphysics. Metaphysics is the part of philosophy that is concerned with the basic causes and nature. For instance, the appearance of the size of the sun from an observer on the ground is not the actual size of the sun but rather a derivative formed by the spectator from the ground. People on a daily basis try and distinguish the difference between reality and appearances. This can go from being as simple and basic as looking a rainbow or watching a person do a magic trick. People are constantly trying to solve what they are truly seeing. Basically, appearances are more likely to be misleading when compared to reality, which exists regardless of whether or not it is actually being observed by someone. According to Plato, knowledge is reality and opinion relates to the appearance of reality. The ways in which people
In Streetcar Named Desire, Blanch uses illusion to shelter from reality. Blanche lives in a world of illusion. Fantasy is her primary means of self-defense, both against outside threats and against her own inner demons. But her deceptions carry no trace of ill will, but rather they come from her weakness and inability to confront the truth face to face. Blanch is a very visionary person, seeing the world not as it is, but as it “should” be. For example, she said “I don't want realism. I want magic!” (p. 145). Fantasy has a relieving kind of force that protects her from the tragedies she has had to endure. Throughout the play, Blanche's dependence on illusion is contrasted with Stanley's belief in realism and reality. But in the end it is Stanley and his realistic views that win. To survive, Stella must also rely on a kind of illusion. This forces her to believe that Blanche's accusations against Stanley are false, just so that she can continue to live with her