In John Osborne’s play “Look Back in Anger,” the concept of blood and sacrifice plays a significant role in the development of the text. Blood and sacrifice are powerful symbols that represent the deep-seated anger, resentment, and frustration that the characters feel towards the society in which they live.
The concept of blood and sacrifice is introduced early in the play through the character of Jimmy Porter, the protagonist. Jimmy is a working-class man who feels trapped and suffocated by the monotony and conformity of British society. He is filled with a sense of anger and resentment towards the upper classes and the establishment, and he sees blood and sacrifice as a means of expressing this anger and challenging the status quo.
Throughout the play, Jimmy’s anger and resentment towards society are fueled by his perception of the upper classes as bloodthirsty and willing to sacrifice the working class for their own gain. This perception is exemplified in Jimmy’s famous monologue, in which he laments the fact that the upper classes are willing to sacrifice the working class for their own benefit, while the working class is left to suffer and struggle.
The concept of blood and sacrifice also serves to highlight the theme of class struggle and the divisions that exist within British society.
The play presents a stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor, with the upper classes portrayed as bloodthirsty and exploitative, while the working class is depicted as powerless and marginalized. This contrast underscores the deep-seated anger and resentment that the working class feels towards the upper classes and the establishment.
Furthermore, the concept of blood and sacrifice serves to explore the theme of individual versus societal expectations. Jimmy’s desire to challenge the status quo and express his anger and resentment towards society puts him at odds with the expectations and norms of British society. His willingness to embrace blood and sacrifice as a means of expressing his anger and challenging the establishment reflects his desire to break free from the constraints of societal expectations and forge his own path.
Dramatic Techniques used in “Look Back in Anger”
- Naturalism: One of the most significant dramatic techniques used in “Look Back in Anger” is naturalism. Osborne employs naturalistic techniques to present a realistic and unromanticized portrayal of British society in the post-war era. The play’s setting, characters, and dialogue are all grounded in a sense of gritty realism, with little attention paid to romanticized or idealized versions of British life.
- Verbal Sparring: Another dramatic technique used in “Look Back in Anger” is verbal sparring. Osborne employs a series of heated and confrontational exchanges between the characters to explore the deep-seated divisions and conflicts that exist within British society. These verbal sparring matches often involve Jimmy Porter, the protagonist, who is quick-witted and always ready to challenge the status quo.
- Monologue: A third dramatic technique used in “Look Back in Anger” is the use of monologue. Osborne employs a series of powerful and introspective monologues to give voice to the characters’ inner thoughts and emotions. These monologues often serve as a means for the characters to express their anger, resentment, and frustration towards society, and they provide valuable insight into their motivations and desires.