In most plays and novels, authors create depth in characters by demonstrating habits and actions. This is literary device is clearly demonstrated in the play "The Glass Menagerie- by Tennessee Williams. Narrator Tom Wingfeild recalls a time when war was found on every corner in most cities, the 1930's. In the Wingfeild house, tensions run high. Amanda, Tom's mother is hopeful and has high expectations for her children, especially her daughter. Amanda wants her daughter to have gentlemen callers and a husband like she once had. Laura, Tom's sister is shy natured and disabled with no one to accompany her but the presents of her glass menagerie and memories of her old high school crush, Jim. Examining the symbols of the unicorn, coffin, and movies, Tennessee Williams seems to be saying that there is more comfort in illusion and imagination than in reality, developing the theme of fantasy verses reality.
In a room lit by candle light and the sound of music, Jim, the gentlemen caller and Laura stand together while Laura enlightens Jim about her glass menagerie; .
"LAURA: I shouldn't be partial, but he is my favorite one.
JIM: What kind of a thing is this one supposed to be?.
LAURA: Haven't you noticed the single horn on his forehead?.
JIM: A unicorn, huh? "aren't they extinct in the modern world?.
LAURA: I know!.
JIM: Poor little fellow, he must feel sort of lonesome."" .
Unicorns are astonishing and unusual, as is Laura. The unicorn is different from other horses and Laura equates herself with it because of her disability. Jim recognizes the loneliness of the unique creature. The same loneliness that Jim appreciates in the unicorn is the same seclusion that Laura has been accustomed to; yet Jim is allowing her to feel as if she is escaping from the solitude and finally feeling as if she has a companion. As Laura lets go of her timid nature, she is cast into the unicorn and feels comfortable with her surroundings.
