Though the verbal attacks from Goldberg and McCann on Stanley are challenging to decipher, it is clear that Stanley is in a vulnerable position. Their accusations deeply affect him, revealing guilt and sins that he feels he must atone for. Before Goldberg and McCann's arrival, Stanley's self-imposed isolation in the boarding house, while bleak, provides a sense of safety. Initially passive, he only becomes agitated with Meg, whose maternal care he finds overwhelming. His anxiety stays hidden until he hears about the arrival of two strangers. These newcomers awaken his inner fears, suggesting that Stanley must face consequences for his real or imagined wrongdoings, which, according to their strange judgment, include various crimes against humanity.

However, Goldberg and McCann are not avenging angels. Despite Goldberg's outward friendliness and charm, he is more than willing to lead innocence astray. He seduces Lulu, drawing her into a life of debauchery. These contradictions only add to the mystery surrounding the true nature of these intruders.