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(The Glass Menagerie) The characters in the play have depth. Audiences learn their strengths and dreams, their weaknesses, and fears. Tom and Amanda are the most dramatic characters in this play. Write one paragraph explaining if Amanda is a good mother in the play, or is she the “witch” that Tom calls her in anger? AND write a second paragraph explaining if Tom a good son in the play, or is he, like his father, a faithless man? How do these characters’ different definitions of happiness cause them to clash? Include at least 2 quotes from the play.

User Ryan Zhang
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Amanda is a complex character, and it can be challenging to determine whether she is a good mother. On the one hand, she deeply cares for her children and is determined to ensure their success and happiness. On the other hand, her constant criticism, unrealistic expectations, and controlling behavior often do more harm than good. In Tom's eyes, Amanda is a "witch" who suffocates him and makes him feel trapped. However, it's important to note that Amanda's actions come from a place of love and concern, and she truly believes that she is doing what's best for her children. Ultimately, whether or not Amanda is a good mother depends on one's interpretation of her actions and intentions.

Tom, like his father, is a restless and dissatisfied man. He dreams of escaping his mundane life and finding happiness through adventure and excitement. While he cares for his family, his desire for freedom often causes him to neglect his responsibilities and hurt those around him. His clashes with Amanda stem from their different definitions of happiness: Amanda believes that stability and security are the keys to a happy life, while Tom values freedom and excitement. As Tom states, "I'm starting to boil inside...I know I seem dreamy, but inside--well, I'm boiling! Whenever I pick up a shoe, I shudder a little thinking about 1. Clarify the thesis statement: The text could benefit from a clearer thesis statement that clearly states the main argument or point of view. This would help readers better understand the purpose of the text and what they can expect to learn from it.

2. Provide more concrete examples: The text could benefit from more concrete examples to support the claims made about Amanda and Tom's characters. This would help readers better visualize the characters and understand their motivations and behaviors.

3. Consider alternative perspectives: The text presents Amanda and Tom's characters in a fairly one-sided manner, without considering alternative perspectives or interpretations. Including other perspectives could help readers form a more nuanced understanding of the characters and their actions. Telling a story.What specific actions of Amanda are considered controlling and unrealistic?
Is there any instance where Tom shows appreciation for Amanda's efforts as a mother?
How do Amanda's actions affect the children in the story?how short life is and what I am doing! Whatever that means, I know it doesn't mean shoes--except as something to wear on a traveler's feet!" (Scene 1). Tom's desire for adventure and meaning clashes with Amanda's need for stability, which leads to conflict and tension throughout the play.

In conclusion, the characters of Amanda and Tom in "The Glass Menagerie" have different definitions of happiness that cause them to clash. While Amanda's actions are often controlling and unrealistic, they come from a place of love and concern for her children. On the other hand, Tom desires freedom and excitement at the expense of his family's well-being. These conflicting desires create tension and drama throughout the play, making it a powerful exploration of the human condition.

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User Loner Shushman
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