Blood Brothers: historical context

Blood Brothers: historical context

Historical Background of “Blood Brothers”

  • “Blood Brothers” is a musical by Willy Russell, first performed in 1981. Understanding its historical context is key for interpreting the characters’ actions, motivations, and the overall plot.
  • The play is set in Liverpool in the UK, spanning several decades from the late 1950s to the early 1980s. This was a time of substantial social and economic change in the country.

Liverpool during the 50s to 80s

  • Liverpool, in particular, faced significant hardship during this period, going through deindustrialisation and high unemployment rates. These circumstances deeply influenced the characters’ actions in the play.

Class Divide in “Blood Brothers”

  • The class divide is a critical theme in “Blood Brothers.” The characters Mickey and Eddie are born into vastly differing social circumstances, with Eddie growing up in a middle-class family while Mickey is from a poor, working-class family.

Influence of Historical Events on the Play

  • Various historical events that occurred during the time frame of the play, including the election of Margaret Thatcher, the subsequent rise of neoliberal policies, and the increased division between the rich and the poor are all essential background aspects affecting the characters’ lives and choices in the play.

Superstitions and Beliefs

  • The play also touches on the superstitions and beliefs during this period. The belief in fate, destiny and the supernatural played a significant role in peoples’ lives, which is mirrored in Mrs. Johnstone’s superstitions in the play.

Housing Issue in the 80s

  • The issue of housing, particularly council housing, was prominent at that time. The relocation of the Johnstone family from inner-city Liverpool to a new estate on the outskirts is reflective of urban regeneration attempts during the 1980s.

Significance of Historical Context

  • Recognising the significant role that the historical context plays in “Blood Brothers” will offer a more profound understanding of the characters, their motivations, and ultimately the tragedy that unfolds in the play.