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Hindle Wakes (with accompanying essay)

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By: (1881-1913)

"Hindle Wakes" by Stanley Houghton is a captivating and thought-provoking play that delves into the societal norms and expectations of early 20th century England. The story follows Fanny Hawthorn, a young woman who faces the consequences of a scandalous weekend getaway with her friend's fiancé.

Houghton's writing is sharp and incisive, painting a vivid picture of the hypocrisy and double standards that pervade the society of the time. The characters are well-developed and realistic, each grappling with their own moral dilemmas and societal pressures.

One of the standout aspects of the play is its exploration of gender roles and expectations. Fanny's defiance of societal norms and her refusal to conform to traditional expectations make her a complex and compelling protagonist. The play also raises important questions about class and privilege, as characters from different social backgrounds navigate the fallout of Fanny's actions.

Overall, "Hindle Wakes" is a powerful and engaging play that offers a revealing glimpse into the social mores of the time. Houghton's sharp insight and compelling characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in exploring themes of morality, gender, and class in early 20th century England.

Book Description:
Alan Jeffcote, son of Nat Hawthorn, Hindle's richest factory owner, meets Fanny Hawthorn, daughter of Nat's 'slasher' and oldest friend, in Blackpool and the two go off for what they believe to be secret fling in Llandudno. But after the death of Fanny's friend, Mary, in a pleasure boat accident at Blackpool the secret is revealed and the the two families are thrown into disarray. The leading light of the so-called Manchester School of realist dramatists, Stanley Houghton wrote Hindle Wakes in 1911 and it was a hit both in Mrs. Horniman's Gaiety Theatre in Manchester and the Aldwych Theatre, London in the following year. Houghton's best known play, Hindle Wakes has been filmed five times, most recently in 1976 as a TV film starring Donald Pleasance. The play's title refers to the wakes week holiday in the fictional town of Hindle and is also a pun on the name of a traditional Lancashire chicken dish.


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