5.1.2

Linking Devices

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Dramatic Structure: Linking Devices

In terms of dramatic structure, Williams also uses the following core elements to provide continuity across the text:

Illustrative background for Piano musicIllustrative background for Piano music ?? "content

Piano music

  • The use of piano music to provide a link from one scene to another.
Illustrative background for Polka / polka dancingIllustrative background for Polka / polka dancing ?? "content

Polka / polka dancing

  • The use of polka and polka dancing to suggest wildness and eroticism – as well as memories of Blanche’s past.
Illustrative background for BathroomIllustrative background for Bathroom ?? "content

Bathroom

  • The technique of placing Blanche in the bathroom so that on-stage discussion about her can take place between Stella and Stanley.
Illustrative background for Male and female spaceIllustrative background for Male and female space ?? "content

Male and female space

  • The depiction of male space with the gambling table – and female space being anywhere else but at the table.

Dramatic Structure: Linking Devices

In terms of dramatic structure, Williams also uses the following core elements to provide continuity across the text:

Illustrative background for Outside space (street)Illustrative background for Outside space (street) ?? "content

Outside space (street)

  • The use of the outside space of the street, providing a commentary on the interior space (the apartment).
Illustrative background for PropertiesIllustrative background for Properties ?? "content

Properties

  • The continual use of properties such as alcohol, the radio, jewellery and clothing.
Illustrative background for Characters listening inIllustrative background for Characters listening in ?? "content

Characters listening in

  • The use of characters listening in and overhearing what is being spoken either in the street or inside the apartment.
Illustrative background for TelephoneIllustrative background for Telephone ?? "content

Telephone

  • The structural use of the telephone to give Blanche a line to the outside world – although this is rarely returned to her, showing her isolation.

Jump to other topics

1Context & Overview

2Scene Summaries

3Character Profiles

4Key Ideas

5Writing Techniques

6Critical Debates

7Ideas About Tragedy

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