Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams

The Glass Menagerie is a captivating play that tells the story of a dysfunctional family living in St. Louis during the 1930s. The play is a masterpiece of American drama and is considered to be one of Tennessee Williams' most famous works.

The play is divided into seven scenes and is narrated by Tom, the son of the Wingfield family. Tom is a poet and a dreamer who is trapped in a dead-end job that he hates. His mother, Amanda, is a faded Southern belle who lives in the past and is obsessed with finding a suitable match for her daughter, Laura. Laura is a shy and delicate girl who suffers from a crippling physical disability and has withdrawn from the world.

In the first scene, Tom introduces the audience to his family and their cramped apartment. He explains that he is the sole breadwinner of the family and that his father abandoned them years ago. Amanda is concerned about Laura's future and decides to invite a gentleman caller to dinner with the hope that he will fall in love with Laura.

In the second scene, Amanda enlists the help of Tom to find a suitable gentleman caller for Laura. Tom invites his coworker, Jim, to dinner, and Amanda is delighted with his arrival. Laura is also excited to see Jim, as they went to high school together. Jim is outgoing and confident, and he quickly becomes the center of attention.

In the third scene, Jim and Laura are left alone in the living room, and they start to talk about their past. Jim reveals that he was once a high school hero and that Laura was the only girl who understood him. He gives her a kiss, and Laura becomes overwhelmed with emotion. She reveals her glass menagerie to Jim, and he accidentally breaks one of the figurines. Laura is devastated, and Jim apologizes for his clumsiness.

In the fourth scene, Jim and Laura join the rest of the family for dinner. Jim is charming and charismatic, and he makes Amanda and Tom laugh. However, Laura is still upset about the broken figurine and does not eat her dinner. After dinner, Jim invites Laura to dance, and he tries to boost her confidence by telling her that she is pretty and special.

In the fifth scene, Jim and Laura dance together, and Laura finally opens up to him. She tells him about her disability and how it has affected her life. Jim encourages her to overcome her fears and pursue her dreams. However, their moment is short-lived when Jim reveals that he is engaged to another woman. Laura is heartbroken, and Jim leaves.

In the sixth scene, Amanda confronts Tom about his behavior and accuses him of not being a responsible member of the family. Tom becomes angry and decides to leave home. He bids farewell to Laura and promises to never forget her.

In the final scene, Tom reflects on his past and the memories of his family. He realizes that he can never escape his past and that he will always be haunted by the memory of Laura. The play ends with Tom saying, "Oh, Laura, Laura, I tried to leave you behind me, but I am more faithful than I intended to be!"

In conclusion, The Glass Menagerie is a powerful play that explores the themes of family, memory, and the American Dream. Tennessee Williams' use of symbolism and poetic language makes the play a masterpiece of American drama. The play's characters are relatable, and their struggles are universal. The Glass Menagerie is a must-read for anyone who loves American literature and drama.