Symbolism and Character Analysis in Literature

In scene four of 'The Glass Menagerie,' Tom returns home after a night out, sharing stories with Laura. Amanda and Tom's relationship is strained, and Amanda sends Laura on an errand, highlighting family tensions. Amanda expresses concerns about her children's future, hoping Tom will find a suitor for Laura. Tom reflects on his life, realizing he must change to escape his current situation. The fire escape symbolizes both escape and entrapment, as seen in Tom and Laura's interactions with it.

What does Tom describe to Laura upon returning home?

• A Shakespearean play

• A documentary about animals

• A musical concert

• A Mickey Mouse cartoon and a Greta Garbo film

What item does Tom give to Laura, claiming it was magical?

• A magic wand

• A pair of gloves

• A magician's hat

• A colorful scarf

Why is Laura anxious about going to the store?

• She is afraid of the dark

• She is expecting a visitor

• She doesn't know the way

• They owe the storekeeper money

What happens to Laura on the fire escape?

• She sees a shooting star

• She finds a lost item

• She meets a stranger

• She slips but is unharmed

What does Amanda admit to Tom during their conversation?

• She has been too lenient with them

• She alienates her children by trying to improve them

• She wants to move to a new city

• She plans to sell the house

What is Amanda's plan for Laura's future?

• To send her to college

• To find a decent young man for her

• To start a business together

• To travel the world

How does Tom feel about Amanda's request regarding Laura?

• He is indifferent

• He is supportive

• He is appalled

• He is excited

What activity is Amanda engaged in at the end of the scene?

• Writing a letter

• Chatting on the phone to sell magazine subscriptions

• Reading a book

• Cooking dinner

What does Amanda hope to achieve by selling magazine subscriptions?

• To support a charity

• To win a prize

• To gain social status

• To earn extra money

How does Tom's relationship with his sister differ from his relationship with his mother?

• He is more patient with his sister

• He is equally affectionate to both

• He is more critical of his sister

• He ignores both equally