1. The title itself: The play's title, The Glass Menagerie, alludes to the fragile and delicate nature of the Wingfield family and their dreams. It symbolizes their vulnerability and their tendency to live in a world of illusion.
2. The Blue Roses: The blue roses that Jim mentions during the play are not only a symbol of unattainable beauty and hope but also an allusion to the mythical search for the Holy Grail. Just as the Holy Grail is a symbol of spiritual fulfillment, the blue roses represent the Wingfields' quest for happiness and fulfillment.
3. The Unicorn: The unicorn that Amanda talks about is an allusion to a medieval tapestry. The unicorn is often seen as a symbol of purity, innocence, and magic, which contrasts with the harsh realities of the Wingfields' lives.
4. The Gentleman Caller: Jim O'Connor's name suggests his role as a potential savior or "gentleman caller" for Laura. His name alludes to the idea of a knight in shining armor who will come and rescue the damsel in distress.
5. The Paradise Garden: Amanda's description of the Paradise Garden alludes to the biblical Garden of Eden, a place of innocence and perfection that is lost due to sin. This allusion reflects Amanda's longing for a return to a simpler, more innocent time.
6. The Glass Figurines: The glass figurines in Laura's collection are symbols of her fragility and vulnerability. They also allude to the idea of collecting and preserving memories, as Laura uses them to create a fantasy world that helps her escape the harshness of reality.
These allusions add depth and richness to the play, allowing the audience to draw connections between The Glass Menagerie and other works of art and literature, as well as explore universal themes and ideas.