The History Boys
Activity 3 – Exploring the character of Irwin
Irwin is employed by the Headmaster as a “safe pair of hands”. He wants Irwin to teach the boys
History in a traditional and straight-forward manner (what might this mean?), as a counterbalance to
Hector’s eclectic and eccentric methods, which the Headmaster does not understand because he is
limited in his views on education and unimaginative in general.
Answer the following questions individually, in pairs or in groups. Report back to the rest of the
class. For each question, give quotations (and page references) to support your ideas.
• What evidence is there in the play that Irwin is actually as unconventional in his views on
History and education as Hector?
• How do the boys respond to Irwin’s teaching methods?
• It has been suggested that Irwin is a character who resembles Hector as he would have
been as a young man. It is further suggested that Hector himself might partially recognise
his similarities with Irwin.
• What is your view on this idea and how might it be demonstrated in the play?
See, for example, p. 15-16, when Irwin interrupts the French lesson:
Irwin Il est commotionne, peut-etre?
The classroom falls silent at this unexpected intrusion.
Hector Comment?
Irwin Commotionne. Shell-shocked.
There is a perceptible moment.
Hector C’est possible. Commotionne. Oui, c’est le mot juste.
• Does the “perceptible moment” here indicate a moment of sympathy and identification for
Hector with Irwin? As you watch the film, make a note of the differences between the film
and the play.
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The History Boys
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