Blog 3 Topic 3

There are many terms in society that are tossed around without the intention or knowledge of using the word with its proper definition. Insanity, for example, is defined by Google as “the state of being seriously mentally ill; madness” or “extreme foolishness or irrationality.” The word has different diction meanings depending on the context of the use. The most used definition of the word has nothing to do with mental illness, instead it is used as more of an insult to a person who is being “risky.” In “A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams, a once high class southern belle named Blanche Dubois becomes overwhelmed due to unfortunate circumstances with loved ones around her. Blanche’s condition was merely insanity, but realistically coping mechanisms used for her circumstances.   

            Blanche’s previous marriage was one unfortunate circumstance that affected her to become the nervous and overly emotional person she was. When Blanche described finding out her husband was a homosexual, she said, “I didn't know anything except I loved him unendurably but without being able to help him or help myself.” Blanche’s husband committed suicide which took a toll on her. Though Blanche may have her issues in the present tense of the play, this dramatic and traumatizing event in her past has affected her in negative ways, but not enough to deem her as insane. Blanche also coped with her husband’s death by sleeping many people- including students from the school which caused her to be fired from her job. Although Blanche’s actions were not the best for her, her future, or her mind, she had a rational reason to act the way she did due to her husband’s death.   

            Another reason Blanche might be seen as “crazy” is due to her imaginary boyfriend, Shep Huntleigh. At first Shep was brought up as an old friend but at the end of the play Blanche honestly thought of his as her rich boyfriend. As the doctor was taking her away, she exclaimed, “You are not the gentleman I was expecting. That man isn't Shep Huntleigh.” She also refused to go with the doctor and armored herself with a chair. Though Blanche was acting out tremendously in this situation, it is again understood as to why she acted this way. Blanche needed a male figure in her life due to the fact her husband was dead, she casually slept around, and Stanley had raped her. She grasped onto the idea of Shep, her dream man, becoming reality and saving her from her situation. Blanche’s actions were again seen as rational because of the past events having such a large impact on her.

            In many parts of the play, Blanche was deemed as “insane” or “crazy” because of events that had impacted her. All her responses to these events were completely rational, though it may not seem that way without the full details. Blanche’s “insanity” is only truly seen by those who are foolish enough to not see the repercussions events had on her life.