My Mother Said I Never Should : Context (OCR GCSE English Literature): Revision Notes

Historical and Social Context: My Mother Said I Never Should was written in 1985, a time of significant changes in gender roles. The play spans much of the 20th century, highlighting how women's roles evolved. It contrasts the early 1900s when women were expected to focus on home and family, with the 1960s and beyond, when women began challenging these traditional roles and seeking more independence. The play reflects the influence of 20th-century feminist movements, particularly the push for workplace equality and reproductive rights.

Feminism and Gender Roles: The play is deeply influenced by feminist ideas. Each character represents different aspects of womanhood and the pressures society places on women. Doris, born in 1900, reflects the traditional view that women should prioritise marriage and motherhood. In contrast, Jackie, from the 1960s, challenges these roles by having a child outside of marriage and pursuing a career. The play explores the tensions between tradition and modernity, showing how these evolving roles affect relationships between the generations.

The Impact of Social Change: The different time periods in the play allow it to explore how social changes, like the end of World War II and the sexual revolution of the 1960s, impacted women's lives. Margaret's struggle to balance being a mother with her personal desires reflects the challenges women faced as they entered the workforce in larger numbers. Social pressures, especially on single mothers like Jackie, are a key theme, showing how societal expectations shape the characters' decisions.

Theatrical Style and Non-Linear Narrative: The play's non-linear structure and minimalistic set are important. By jumping between different times in the characters' lives, the play highlights the cyclical nature of their struggles. The "wasteground" scenes, where the characters appear as children, symbolise a space where they can explore their emotions and fears away from societal expectations. This approach allows the play to delve into themes of memory, identity, and how childhood experiences shape adulthood.

Influence of Charlotte Keatley's Life and Career: Charlotte Keatley's own experiences as a feminist and playwright influenced the play. She was interested in how society defines women's roles and often challenged traditional narratives about women's lives. My Mother Said I Never Should reflects her desire to highlight women's personal experiences and the conflicts they face in trying to meet societal expectations. Understanding Keatley's background can help students appreciate the feminist themes and the focus on women's stories in the play.