A Streetcar Named Desire is a powerful modern drama set in New Orleans. It revolves around a series of conflicts of escalating intensity between Blanche DuBois, who envelopes herself in a protective world of illusion and shadow, and Stanley Kowalski, whose fundamental world of brute realism can make no allowances for that which he does not understand. The inevitable collision of their tow world must ultimately end in the annihilation of one of them. The audience ultimately learns that Blanche has long been on a journey towards destruction—a destruction which will be hastened and finalized by Stanley.

This unit presents a variety of materials that will enhance students’ comprehension of the play. Students develop vocabulary and writing skills. They increase comprehension of literary devices—plot, theme, symbolism, irony, and conflict. They conduct analysis of characters and dialogue. They use deductive reasoning.

 

Lessons include quizzes on reading assignments with answer keys. Supplementary materials include a final test with answer key and optional activities to extend the unit.