The Glass Menagerie, written in the forties, is a relatable play for today’s audience without a specific date. It addresses the issue of disabilities by portraying Laura’s self-consciousness about her disability. However, society treats individuals with disabilities like anyone else. Throughout the plot, Laura develops from being timid and afraid to trusting people more. In the end, she opens up to Jim and reveals her cherished glass menagerie. While stage directions help understand the plot and character motives, Tennessee Williams’ excessive description can be bothersome. This play made me contemplate how disabled individuals were treated in the thirties and forties, challenging my previous belief that it was not accepted at that time period. Interestingly, despite Laura’s disability, she did not receive any differential treatment.
One surprising aspect of this play was that Jim was not married to his high school sweetheart, Emily Meisenbach. Based on Laura’s memory, it was expected that Jim would indeed be married to Emily. However, it turns out that he is actually engaged to Betty. This suggests that Jim is truly as remarkable as Laura recalls.
What frustrated me about this play was the revelation that Jim was indeed engaged. I had hoped that Laura and Jim would ultimately form a successful romantic relationship and live happily ever after. However, this storyline reflects the reality that life does not always unfold as we desire. I appreciate how Williams demonstrates that not everything resolves itself in a positive manner in the real world.
Amanda’s continuous accusations towards Tom being selfish is something I dislike. I believe Tom is being exceptionally generous and honorable by providing support to Amanda and Laura. It is not his obligation to do so, yet he chooses to without hesitation. Rather than indulging in worldly pleasures with his wealth, he opts to assist Amanda and Laura. I suggest that this play remains as study material for grade eleven students because it remains relevant and discusses important subjects such as the treatment of individuals with disabilities. Additionally, I think it should continue to be studied because it is a concise and straightforward play that swiftly gets to the core of its message, reducing the likelihood of students becoming bored.
