The Hubbels
Literature in English: Cambridge International GCSE A Streetcar Named Desire, topic 3.3.1
Eunice and Steve Hubbel
Steve and Eunice Hubbel act as choral figures in the play - commenting upon and enhancing the wider impact of the tragedy.
Marital problems
- Eunice has disagreements with her husband. But they work things out and continue their marriage. They row and fight but she does not have the frustrations that Blanche has.
Eunice and Blanche
- In many ways, Eunice has similar characteristics to Stella. Throughout the play, she becomes increasingly aware of Blanche's vulnerabilities.
- Blanche is the complete opposite of Eunice. Blanche pokes fun at her appearance.
- Eunice is, however, very grounded and helps Stella to pack Blanche’s things moments before her incarceration in a mental institution. She seems pleased that Blanche is leaving.
Steve Hubbel
- Steve is married to Eunice and is a friend of Stanley’s and a regular poker player.
- Steve does not have much to say in the drama.
- Steve can be violent but is worried when Eunice goes out – perhaps because she may be chatted up by some "hunk".
- Steve is part of the patriarchal world of the play but he is the one character who is not charmed by Blanche.
- This may be because, in fact, he is in a happy relationship already.
Test yourself on The Hubbels
What is Steve worried about when Eunice goes out?
How is Steve Hubbel presented in the play?
How is Eunice presented in A Streetcar Named Desire?