Laura Wingfield

Definition

Laura Wingfield is a central character in Tennessee Williams' play 'The Glass Menagerie,' representing fragility, nostalgia, and the struggle between reality and illusion. As the daughter of Amanda Wingfield and sister to Tom, Laura embodies the themes of isolation and unattainable dreams, making her a poignant figure in American theater. Her relationship with her mother and her own internal struggles highlight the complexities of familial obligations and personal desires.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Laura Wingfield is often seen as a representation of the fragility of human existence, both physically and emotionally, as she navigates her limitations in a harsh world.
2. Her collection of glass animals serves as a metaphor for her own vulnerability, showcasing her desire for beauty in a life filled with disappointment.
3. Laura's relationship with her brother Tom reveals the tensions between familial duty and personal aspirations, as Tom feels trapped by his responsibilities towards her.
4. The character’s social anxiety is evident through her physical ailments, which further isolate her from the outside world, highlighting themes of alienation.
5. In the climax of the play, Laura's encounter with Jim O'Connor serves as a pivotal moment that exposes both her longing for connection and the harsh realities of unfulfilled dreams.

Review Questions

• How does Laura Wingfield's character illustrate the theme of fragility in 'The Glass Menagerie'?
  • Laura Wingfield's character embodies fragility through her physical ailments, emotional vulnerabilities, and delicate glass collection. These elements emphasize her isolation and inability to cope with the outside world. Her interactions with other characters reveal how this fragility affects not only her own life but also the dynamics within her family, particularly with her mother Amanda and brother Tom.
• Discuss how Laura's relationship with Amanda shapes both characters' experiences in the play.
  • Laura's relationship with Amanda is marked by Amanda's intense desire for social success and security for her children, which contrasts sharply with Laura's introverted nature. Amanda projects her own unfulfilled dreams onto Laura, which amplifies Laura's feelings of inadequacy. This dynamic creates tension between them, as Laura struggles to meet her mother's expectations while also seeking to assert her own identity.
• Evaluate the significance of Laura Wingfield's encounter with Jim O'Connor in relation to the overall themes of hope and disillusionment in 'The Glass Menagerie.'
  • Laura's encounter with Jim O'Connor is significant as it represents a fleeting moment of hope amidst the pervasive disillusionment in 'The Glass Menagerie.' During their interaction, Laura experiences a brief sense of connection and possibility, reflecting her deep-seated desire for love and acceptance. However, when Jim reveals he is engaged to someone else, this moment shatters Laura's illusions, reinforcing the play’s themes of unattainable dreams and the harsh realities that confront individuals in their quest for happiness.

Related terms

The Glass Menagerie:

A semi-autobiographical play by Tennessee Williams that explores themes of memory, longing, and the delicate nature of human relationships.

Amanda Wingfield:

Laura's overbearing mother in 'The Glass Menagerie,' whose desperation for social status and security contrasts sharply with Laura's introverted nature.

Symbolism:

The use of symbols in literature to represent ideas or qualities; in 'The Glass Menagerie,' Laura's glass menagerie symbolizes her delicate and fragile personality.