The History Boys Characters

The History Boys Characters

1. Irwin

   • Counterpoint to Hector

2. Mrs Lintott

   • Provides a female perspective
     • Feminist
       • "Masculine ineptitude"
     • Discusses the role of women in history
       • "History is women following behind with the bucket."
   • Cynical
     • This is a mask for her passion
     • She is a passive observer
       • Not involved in the power struggle
   • Reluctant confidante to the male staff
     • She is expected to listen to their problems, as the sole matronly figure on the staff
       • "Though that I should be assumed to be so discreet is in itself condescending"
   • Passionate
   • Creates humour
     • Use of irony
     • Use of taboo language
       • Contrasted with her high register, educated way of speaking

3. Hector

   • Eccentric teaching style

4. Headmaster

   • Cares more about university figures than his students
     • Ambitious
     • Concerned with his own success and glory
   • Caricature of a headmaster
   • Much of the comedy in the play is at his expense
   • Aging, but keen to seem 'hip' and relevant
     • Language/dialogue reflects this

5. Dakin

   • Leader of the boys
   • Sexual
     • Uses sex and his sexual appeal in order to get his own way
     • The only way he knows how to thank Irwin is through sex
       • Whether or not he is actually attracted to Irwin may be debatable
   • Cocky
     • Knows that he's attractive, and uses it to his own advantage

6. Scripps

   • Acts as the narrator of the play
   • A confidante to the other boys

7. Rudge

8. Posner