A Taste of Honey: social context

“A Taste of Honey” Overview

“A Taste of Honey” is a play written by Shelagh Delaney in 1958. It is set in post-war Britain, which greatly influenced the social context of the narrative.
The play is a reflection of the working-class society of Salford, Manchester, during the 1950s, primarily portraying poverty and the yearning for a better life.

Major Themes

The play raises issues related to social class, ethnic minorities, and gender, which were of high relevance in the 1950s and remain significant today.
Delaney deftly exposes the effects of living in a society where women must be self-sufficient, yet are not given the opportunities to flourish professionally.

Teenage pregnancy, which is a significant aspect of the plot, was a social taboo during the time the play is set. This reflects societal attitudes towards sexuality and morality during the 1950s.
“A Taste of Honey” also explores the hardships faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-20th century. The character, Geoffrey, is a homosexual at a time when homosexuality was criminalised in Britain.

Racial Tensions & Class Struggles

The play confronts racial tensions prevalent during the post-war period. The character of Jimmy, a black sailor who impregnates Jo, illustrates the racial discrimination prevalent in society.
The attitudes of the characters towards work, education, and ambition provide insights into the limits and aspirations of the working-class during this era.

Artistic Genre & Family Dynamics

“A Taste of Honey” is also considered a Kitchen Sink drama of the British New Way movement, which aimed to depict the harsh realities of working-class life.
Family dynamics is another critical aspect portrayed in the play. The strained relationship between Jo and her mother, Helen, displays the lack of traditional family structures in working-class society.