A Streetcar Named Desire Three Act Plot Analysis

Act I

Blanche arrives in New Orleans, reunites with sister, and meets Stanley. Conflict seems inevitable as we get a glimpse of Stanley’s violent streak, and of course the Mitch saga begins. Stella’s pregnancy is revealed as well.

Act II

Tension rises as Stanley grows more and more frustrated with Blanche’s presence. Her relationship with Mitch is threatened by rumors of her activities in Laurel, and Stanley rapes Blanche.

Act III

Stella decides to send Blanche to a mental institution. Stanley, predictably, plays some more poker.