Stockholm: historical context

Stockholm: historical context

Overview of Historical Context in Stockholm

  • Stockholm was first staged at the Swan Theatre in Worcester, England in 2007. Its setting and historical context reflect the time period.
  • The play is profoundly influenced by the prevailing social and psychological understanding of relationship dynamics, violence and Stockholm Syndrome during the period.

Understanding Stockholm Syndrome and the 1970s

  • Stockholm Syndrome is a term coined after a 1973 bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden, where hostages developed an emotional bond with their captors. This concept heavily impacts the play’s narrative.
  • It’s important to understand the socio-political climate of the 1970s, which marked the genesis of identifying and understanding abusive behaviours and trauma bonding.

Notable Events and Social Changes

  • Relationship dynamics during the 2000s were shifting; society was becoming more aware of unhealthy relationships and psychological manipulation which directly impacts the narrative and context of Stockholm.
  • During this period, issues surrounding mental health were increasingly coming into focus, shaping the way mind games and unstable psychological states are presented in the play.

Impact of History on Play’s Themes

  • The historical context of Stockholm informs its key themes including manipulation, power, love, and obsession.
  • An understanding of historical shifts in gender dynamics and discussions surrounding emotional abuse provides useful context and depth to the characters of Todd and Kali and their relationship.
  • The understanding of Stockholm Syndrome significantly evolved in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, infiltrating multiple areas of popular culture, including music, cinema, and plays just like Stockholm.
  • Exploring this cultural phenomenon through historical context is critical when studying how audience attitudes and understanding might have been affected upon viewing Stockholm for the first time.