The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams
Jim O'Connor was an assumed gentleman caller for Laura, a date that was just supposed to be a pleasant change of pace. However, he turned out to have much more potential. In fact, I believe that Jim was the most proactive character of the entire play. Even though he only was involved with the play for one evening, he had significant influence on every character. Amanda was a happier (or at least she pretended to be) person when he arrived, and Tom entrusted his true intentions with him. Most importantly, he shaped Laura's personality with his simple visit. She was always a timid, frail individual, and it was evident during the beginning of their conversation. But as things progressed, he eased her discomfort and made her more open to communication. Even though he wasn't planning on falling in love with her, he wanted to make sure she was happy. He wanted her to "think of yourself as superior in someway!" (Williams 1280) which was something Laura never even thought was possible. However, a plain old gentleman caller turned her world upside-down, and undoubtedly changed the whole way the family lived from that day forth. Laura would probably become more self-confident, Tom would be more adventurous, and Amanda may not have to nag all the time.
No comments:
Post a Comment