With close reference to the language and action of the following passage, discuss Williams presentation of Blanches first appearance in the play.

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With close reference to the language and action of the following passage, discuss Williams’ presentation of Blanche’s first appearance in the play.

Introductions and first impressions play an important role in a novel. Streetcar Named Desire, the character of Blanche is the center of the play, in which all the problems that arise are as a result of Blanche’s actions or simply her presence. Tennessee Williams conveys this in the beginning scene of the play, where Blanche is instantly distinguished as a stranger to the setting. She is seen being patronizing towards the other characters of the play, giving of the impression to the audience of a snobbish attitude. Blanche’s character may just be the most interesting character, and arguably the main character, as we see her character evolve from the start due to the ways she finds ways to cover her true self, like by her clothing; she dresses as a noblewoman to come across as a classy Victorian lady, but this facade deteriorates significantly.

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When she enters, it is fairly easy to see that Blanche is new to the neighborhood, through her action of looking at “a slip of paper”, which was an address. The numerous ornamental accessories (“necklace”, “earrings of pearl”) give the feeling that Blanche is from the upper, aristocratic classes. The stage direction of “shocked disbelief” is strong as it demonstrates a mix of horror and awe as she takes in her surroundings. There is an obvious contrast between her and the scenery, “incongruous to this setting”, outlining the obvious difference in both bringing up and their scale on the social ...

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The essay's analysis is more akin to a GCSE essay. At A-Level you are expected to discuss techniques collectively, rather than feature spot. For example this essays talks of Williams use of "delicate beauty" as an oxymoron and some symbols. This analysis is good, but in isolation it doesn't build an argument. You should be looking at constructing paragraphs to analyse language, form and structure rather than going chronologically through the plot picking techniques. I did like how there was an awareness of authorial construction: phrases such as "Williams uses" or "Williams portrays" show the examiner that you understand there is a purpose to the play. There is some discussion of the audience response in this essay, but if it wants to move into the higher bands this needs to be me thorough. I would've liked to have seen more focus on tragedy as a genre, looking at how Williams may be constructing Blanche's hamartia in the opening scene. Such discussion will elevate this essay.

This essay has potential, and shows a thorough knowledge of the opening scene of the play. The introduction is okay, with the first three sentences offering an effective opening. However, the rest of the introduction begins to summarise the plot rather than focus on the techniques Williams uses. It is important that you maintain an analytical stance rather than simply retelling the story, as you won't gain marks for simple knowledge. To sustain analysis, there needs to be discussion of techniques rather than what happens in the play.