Character Dynamics and Symbolism in The Glass Menagerie

In scene three of 'The Glass Menagerie,' Tom narrates the events following Amanda's plan to find a husband for Laura. Amanda becomes obsessed with gentleman callers, leading to tensions with Tom. Tom is frustrated by Amanda's control over his life, resulting in a heated outburst where he breaks Laura's glass animals. This incident highlights the fragile family dynamics and the symbolic nature of the glass animals, representing the delicate relationships and hidden emotions within the family.

What is Tom doing at the beginning of Scene Three?

• Talking to Laura

• Reading a book

• Narrating events from the fire escape

• Writing a letter

Why is Amanda obsessed with the idea of gentleman callers?

• To find a husband for herself

• To secure the family's financial future

• To impress her friends

• To distract herself from her problems

What causes tensions to rise between Amanda and Tom?

• Tom's choice of books

• Tom's job performance

• Amanda's intrusions into Tom's life

• Laura's behavior

How does Tom describe his imagined life during his tirade?

• As a world traveler

• As a successful businessman

• As a heroic adventurer

• As a famous actor

What happens to Laura's glass animals during Tom's outburst?

• They are stolen

• They are given away

• They crash to the floor and break

• They are sold

What does Tom's outburst reveal about his feelings?

• He is frustrated and wants to escape

• He is content with his life

• He is happy with his job

• He is indifferent to his family's struggles

What does Tom's coat symbolize when it lands on Laura's figurines?

• His love for his family

• His carelessness

• His desire to protect Laura

• His anger and frustration

What does Amanda do to earn extra money?

• Sells homemade crafts

• Solicits magazine subscriptions

• Works at a local store

• Teaches piano lessons

What is Amanda's reaction to a prospective magazine subscriber hanging up on her?

• She tries calling again

• She laughs it off

• She decides to quit

• Her suppressed anger explodes

How does Amanda try to maintain respectability?

• By earning extra money

• By hosting parties

• By dressing well

• By attending church