EDUCATING RITA
A
ActII
Trish and Tiger
Trish: flatmate
Tiger: real name Tyson , a “proper”student, R calls him “mad”
B
Frank and Rita: a (personal) love affair?
F is interested in R’s personal life; sometimes more like a fatherdaughter relationship; asking her to accompany him to Australia is
a sign of “love”; no physical love; they care for each other. F broke
with Julia (because of eggs!!);Frankm loves Rita, he is almost
dependent on her, He is extremely jealous of every male student
who seems to be close to her. Finally Frank resembles Denny in
wishing to have the “old Rita” back, which would mean that Ri
would have no choice, no freedom to develop.
C
Essay writing / literature / exams
R’s essays have become different, not as direct and honest as ion
the beginning, now she writes academic interpretations, with
quotes and literary language. She went so Summer School, learnt
a lot and showed interest and turned out to be an excellent
student. She passes the final exam
D
Frank and Rita: a reversal of roles?
Yes, F is not in control any more, is not stronger any more, R does
not need him any more. R teaches F how to live one’s life properly.
F’s initial frustration changes into a lighter attitude towards life. R
has not forgotten her roots (haircut).
E
Symbols /metaphors
58: room=plant; opens the window, fresh air. R misses contact
with the outside, but it doesn’t weork = nothing has changed for
years.
60: Blake’s poem The Sick Rose
R changes her name: educated, satisfied with herself
Presents: pen for F = rediscover youir talents! Be yourself!
Dress for R: you are educated, but I would like to …
F
Frank as a teacher
Expert on his topic, writes good poetry, lacks discipline in class, he
is an alcoholic, does not treat his students fairly. Not interested in
his job. R: he is a good teacher
G
Rita’s choice(s)
She chooses to be a proper student – she leaves her uniqueness
She chooses to take the exam “properly”
…her appearance, her name
Go to Australia? Stay with her mom? London new job? France?
“I might even have a baby”