"Jim: Unicorns, aren't they extinct in the modern world?
Laura: I know!
Jim: Poor little fellow, he must feel sort of lonesome."
(Scene 7, page 1281)
I think the glass menagerie is a symbol for Laura. These glass figures live a sheltered life, they never move or make progress, just stay in one place. Laura is the same way. She doesn't leave her house or try to make something of herself. The unicorn especially represents Laura. Laura views herself has an outcast because she has a physical defect. When the unicorn breaks and becomes "accepted" by the other horses, it's like Laura become accepted too. Jim shows her that she shouldn't be self conscious and that she is just as great as everyone else. Laura doesn't get mad at Jim when he breaks the glass because Jim is truly sorry for doing it and really wants to help Laura step out of her shell. Tom on the other hand hasn't really attempted to help Laura make something of herself and Laura thinks that Tom hates her and their mother because he is always leaving. I think Laura gives Jim the unicorn because she wants him to hold on to part of her. Jim represents the modern world and what's going on outside of the house. I think Laura wants to be a part of that world.
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