[Student Name]

Question

[Teacher Name]
English 10A
[Day Month Year]
Sample Work: Poetry and Drama
When reflecting on the play The Glass Menagerie, there are several lessons to learn; in addition to its overarching theme about confinement and escape (both physical and emotional), other themes of the play include: obligation to family, conflict between one’s duty and one’s own dreams, abandonment, societal expectations of men and women, the nature of love and marriage. Two of those themes are worthy of further analysis: [...] and [...].
Firstly, look at the theme of [...]. For example, the text states, “[...]” ([page number]). To explain, [...]. This proves the point that [...].
Secondly, the author addresses the topic of [...]. The play provides proof of this in the dialogue, “[...]” ([page number]). To elaborate, [...]. This illustrates that [...].
Ultimately, The Glass Menagerie is an example of a “memory play,” in which a character tells a story drawn from their own memories. A character named [...] teaches us many valuable lessons in addition to those listed above. Through the stories shared, the biggest takeaway is this: [...].

Answer 1

[Your Name]
[Teacher Name]
English 10A
[Day Month Year]

Sample Work: Poetry and Drama

When reflecting on the play The Glass Menagerie, there are several lessons to learn; in addition to its overarching theme about confinement and escape (both physical and emotional), other themes of the play include obligation to family, conflict between one’s duty and one’s own dreams, abandonment, societal expectations of men and women, the nature of love and marriage. Two of those themes are worthy of further analysis: the struggle between dreams and reality and the complexity of familial obligation.

Firstly, let’s explore the theme of the struggle between dreams and reality. For example, the text states, “The things we really love are the things that are just beyond our reach” (Williams, p. 78). To explain, this quote reflects the characters' persistent longing for a better life, juxtaposed against the harsh realities of their situation. This proves the point that the characters are often trapped by their circumstances, leading them to retreat into their dreams as a coping mechanism. Their unreachable aspirations highlight the fragility of hope and the pain of unfulfilled desires.

Secondly, the author addresses the topic of the complexity of familial obligation. The play provides proof of this in the dialogue, “I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion” (Williams, p. 27). To elaborate, this quote points to the pressure felt by the characters, particularly Tom, to support and care for his family, even at the expense of his own ambitions. This illustrates that familial bonds can be both a source of strength and a burden, complicating personal desires and responsibilities.

Ultimately, The Glass Menagerie is an example of a “memory play,” in which a character tells a story drawn from their own memories. A character named Tom Wingfield teaches us many valuable lessons in addition to those listed above. Through the stories shared, the biggest takeaway is this: the tension between pursuing personal dreams and fulfilling familial obligations is a universal struggle, reminding us that while we seek to achieve our own desires, we must navigate the complex web of relationships that shape our lives.