Themes and Characters in The Glass Menagerie

The video takes us back to an alley in St. Louis, setting the scene during a time of economic and social upheaval. It describes the backdrop of a dissolving economy and labor disturbances in cities like Cleveland, Chicago, and Detroit. The play is a memory play, not realistic, with events unfolding to music. Key characters include the narrator's mother Amanda, sister Laura, and a gentleman caller, who symbolizes hope. A fifth character, the father, is only present in a photograph, having left the family long ago. The play uses symbolism to explore themes of expectation and family dynamics.

What city is the setting of the play?

• Chicago

• Detroit

• St. Louis

• New York

What was happening in cities like Cleveland, Chicago, and Detroit during the time period described?

• Technological advancements

• Labor disturbances

• Cultural renaissance

• Economic boom

How is the play described in terms of its style?

• Realistic

• Tragic

• Sentimental and non-realistic

• Comedic

What element is said to accompany everything in the play?

• Narration

• Silence

• Music

• Dance

Who are the main characters introduced in the play?

• Amanda, Tom, and Laura

• Tom, Jim, and the father

• Amanda, Laura, and the gentleman caller

• Laura, Jim, and the mother

What is the gentleman caller's role in the play?

• A background character

• A tragic figure

• A comic relief

• A symbol of hope

How is the gentleman caller described in terms of realism?

• The most realistic character

• A completely fictional character

• A dream-like figure

• An unrealistic character

What is the significance of the photograph on the wall?

• It represents the absent father

• It is a piece of art

• It is a symbol of hope

• It is a family heirloom

What message did the father leave in his postcard?

• I miss you

• Hello, goodbye

• Take care

• See you soon