Mrs Lyons: Mrs J, nobody must ever know - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 11 - 2020 - Paper 1

In Willy Russell's play 'Blood Brothers', the relationship between Mrs Lyons and Mrs Johnstone is central to the themes of class disparity and maternal instincts.

Class Disparity

Mrs Lyons and Mrs Johnstone come from vastly different social classes. Mrs Johnstone is depicted as a working-class woman, struggling financially and juggling multiple children, while Mrs Lyons represents the middle class. This class divide influences their interactions and choices throughout the play.

Manipulation and Control

Mrs Lyons often manipulates Mrs Johnstone, as seen when she employs her to clean her home. A pivotal moment is when she leads Mrs Johnstone to agree to give one of her twins to her, demonstrating how Mrs Lyons exploits Mrs Johnstone's vulnerable situation to fulfill her own desires.

Maternal Instincts

In contrast, Mrs Johnstone is portrayed as nurturing and self-sacrificing. Despite her own struggles, she is depicted as a loving mother, which highlights her contrasting values with Mrs Lyons, who is more self-interested. This clash contributes to the tragic outcomes of the play, as both women’s choices lead to dire consequences for their children.

Contextual Relevance

The broader social context of 1980s Britain is essential to understanding their relationship. The play presents working-class struggles against a backdrop of economic hardship, underscoring how societal pressures shape personal decisions. Their conflicting values regarding motherhood and social responsibility ultimately drive the narrative toward tragedy.

Conclusion

The relationship between Mrs Lyons and Mrs Johnstone exemplifies intense socially driven dynamics, revealing deeper themes of class conflict and maternal love. Their intertwined lives reflect larger societal issues, making their relationship crucial to the emotional impact and message of the play.