The Glass Menagerie 2

Happiness vs. Responsibility The Glass Menagerie, written by Tennessee Williams brings forward the question as to whether one has the right to be happy by giving up important responsibilities. Tom Wingfield is a character in the play that must face this moral dilemma. He is being driven crazy by his mother's constant nagging and dissatisfaction with his every action. However, he feels it is his duty to provide for his mother and sister, while at …

…desires to support his family members, both of whom are younger than him and physically able to support themselves. Tom had to make a difficult decision, but the fight at the end of the play exacerbated the ailing relationship Tom had with his mother Amanda. This fight understandably was the last straw for Tom, and it was at this point that he parted ways with his family to seek and new and more satisfying life.