"The Glass Menagerie" is Laura's escape from the horrible reality in which she lives. Laura seems to live in a fantasy world along with her collection of glass toys. This collection of fragile toys symbolizes her need to create a world of illusion. These toys are her world, and she even refers to them as if they were alive. This is where she conceals her reality. The unicorn represents a fantasy world in which the two can live together.
             The unicorn is of great significance, as I believe it represents Laura herself. The unicorn is different and has a distinguished physical characteristic, which separates it's self just as Laura does. Both are fragile and Jim has a breaking effect on them both, however, Laura and the unicorn don't criticize their handicap. The unicorn is a delicate piece of glass that can be broken which compares to Laura and her shattering personality. When the horn is broken, the unicorn becomes plain and simple just like any other horse. The horn was its only distinguishing characteristic.
             Laura separates herself by the way she relates to the unicorn. I also believe there is an atmosphere created of happiness and sadness, which surrounds the unicorn. Laura comes alive when speaking of her collection especially when speaking of the unicorn in particular. She refers to the unicorn as, "he loves the light," and "...if you breath it breaks" demonstrating her affection and relationship to which she has created. Both Laura and the unicorn are subject to break when introduced to any outside force.
             With as much emphasis that is placed on the unicorn combined with her frailty, I was surprised by her reaction since she did not seem heartbroken by the loss of her most prized possession. Instead, her attention was focused on Jim and the earth-shattering news of his engagement to Betty. This news definitely created a feeling of sadness as she realizes appearances can be deceivi...