Fantasy vs. Reality: Lecture Response #3

            In “A Streetcar Named Desire,” by Tennessee Williams, there is a theme regarding the reluctance and inability to accept the truth. It is seen through one character in particular, Stella. Towards the end of the play, Stella’s sister, Blanche, is raped by her husband. It is clear that deep down inside Stella knows the truth. However, Stella chooses to believe her husband, Stanley, rather than her own sister. Stella sends Blanche off to a mental asylum in order to avoid the reality of the situation. Stella is not ready to give up her fantasy of her “ideal life,” with her “perfect” husband, and child on the way. She rather ignore the harsh truth and continue living her false illusion. After really evaluating this piece of literature on a scholarly level, I realized that I will never let myself live a false fantasy. I was also taught never to rely on a man for love and happiness. You must find that within yourself before being able to truly love someone else. I rather face the truth and suffer than live a life pretending to be happy.