Analyzing Amanda Wingfield in Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie Through the Lens of Enneagram

Abstract

This article aims to integrate knowledge in using the Enneagram theory, a body of knowledge that studies human characteristics, to analyze the character Amanda Wingfield in the play "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. This play represents a life from modern era that first incorporated psychological theory into character design. This play is crucial in performing arts education, serving as a case study for both acting and directing. The article analyzed Amanda Wingfield character by using the Enneagram theory and discovered that the character exhibits traits of Enneagram as Type 1 with Wing 2. These traits are evident in the character's attitudes and perspectives towards herself and other characters, expressed through motivations, objective, dialogues, and actions that are all aimed at achieving a sense of completeness according to her ideology (women’s beauty, manners, and righteousness). Furthermore, the character displays Amanda’s managerial and controlling nature, seeking to dominate everything with her expectations. When expectations are not met, the character expresses frustration, irritation, and resentment. Simultaneously, the character exhibits Enneagram Type 2 (as Wing 2) in her expectations of receiving love, acceptance, and special care in return for the attention she provides to others. Based on the analysis results, the researcher sees the possibility of applying Enneagram theory for integration with the performing arts. Utilizing the Enneagram in character analysis helps individuals involved in performance-related work to understand characters that align with each other, fostering the creation of high-quality performances.