JOHN, OSBORNE: Look Back in Anger
Consider Jimmy's views about the Victorian society of his time.
Jimmy Porter is illustrative of an entire culture wistful for past glory. He romanticizes the past even while mocking those who could not understand the change in times. In a time of crucial transition from Britain's Victorian past into the modern twentieth century, Jimmy's rage is an expression of pent-up emotion in an inert and dull world. That anger became a symbol of the rebellion against the political and social malaise of British culture.
Class disparity, troubled childhood and social imbalance all contribute to Jimmy's anger. Jimmy Porter is from the lower class but hates the higher class because of his not being able to be like them or enjoy their privileges. Coincidentally, he married a girl from the upper class (Alison that is) and it is only logical that he would unleash his hatred, anger and frustration on Alison who in this context is an effigy of the higher class he hates. Besides, he has been through a lot. He lost his father when he was five. The latter died in his arms. Despite having a university degree, he still could not find his way into the upper class. Instead, he finds himself working in a small candy stall. These, to a large extent, make for his anger in the play.
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