Tennessee Williams' masterpiece The Glass Menagerie is a prime example of the memory play in modern literature. In this program hosted by Eli Wallach, former cast members and directors of Menagerie discuss plot and thematic elements, the characterization of some of theater's most memorable and enduring dramatic figures, and the era in which the play was written. Commentary is provided by Ruby Dee, Olympia Dukakis, Julie Harris, and Molly Regan (Amanda); James Naughton (Jim, the Gentleman Caller); Eric Stoltz and Sam Waterston (Tom); Martha Plimpton (Laura); and directors Mark Brokaw and Austin Pendleton.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on Sept. 22, 2007. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Prelude: Actors and Directors (2:24) -- Tennessee Williams' Mother and Amanda Wingfield (4:14) -- "The Glass Menagerie" and the Character of Amanda Wingfield (4:34) -- Relationships Between Amanda and Her Children in "The Glass Menagerie" (3:44) -- Emotional Ties in "The Glass Menagerie" (4:50) -- "The Glass Menagerie": Relationship Between Brother and Sister (2:17) -- Mother and Daughter in "The Glass Menagerie" (3:16) -- Characterization in "The Glass Menagerie" (2:56) -- Strength of Character in "The Glass Menagerie" (2:54) -- The Great Depression: Historical Setting of "The Glass Menagerie" (2:24) -- Characterization of the Mother in "The Glass Menagerie" (4:32) -- Importance of "The Glass Menagerie" (2:25) -- Genius of Language in "The Glass Menagerie" (6:01) -- Importance of Sexual Energy in "The Glass Menagerie" (4:42) -- Importance of a Character to World Literature (0:34).