Themes

LBIA was the first to explore the theme of the "angry young man". The term describes men post World War II artists as well as working class men. They werent an organization of some sort but were individuals that were all angry at the way social class was not acknowledged. 

Jimmy Porter was the prime example of the "Angry Young Man". He is angry and the social structures of Britain that he believes kept him from achieving better things than cramped attic accomadation. This anger is shown thoughout the play and is very much directed towards his wife, Alison, as she comes from a higher class than he. 

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The loss of childhood is very clear within the play. Jimmy's loss of childhood is clear when we are told how he had to watch his father deteriorate physically and mentally as a man at a young age. It highlights the fact Jimmy has had to deal with losses from such an early age and has had anger within him since. Which is then repeated in his life with Alison, inwhich a friends mother dies whom he was very close with.  

Alisons loss of childhood is very different from Jimmy's, not suffering any losses and only having to grow up a lot faster. This is another reason Jimmy is angry, he knows how harsh life really is and knowing Alison hasnt had to deal with that he believes she has it so easy, therefore he wishes great pain on her (the miscarriage.. Which turns out to happen). 

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Kitchen sink drama is another big theme in the play. The theme is one in plays that explore realism by showing domestic situations.  According to many, realism in theatre during the mid 20th century had become bery tiresome and unimaginative. Then Osbournes play returned the imagination by showing the anger of post war culture and the non-existent acknowledgment of the working class people. The play explored and commented on a number of domestic and social dilemmas of the time. 

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I think these themes all explore the anger held by Jimmy. This helped with my characterisation as it allowed me to explore how Alison would deal with Jimmy's angry outbursts. 

I knew after years of marriage Alison would be used to it but not outspoke and would keep her opinion to herself. So when Jimmy would be angry and go ranting i would keep quiet and very held together within myself not wanting to do anything that may spark more anger.