History Boys - Irwin

Question 1

Demonstrates Irwin’s approach o exams and education as game

Answer 1

Truth is no more at issue in an examination than thirst at a wine tasting or fashion at a strip tease

Question 2

A summation of Irwin’s dispassionate stance on historical events, including the Holocaust

Answer 2

But this is history. Distance yourselves.

Question 3

Posner’s parents object to Irwin’s…?

Answer 3

‘Angle’ on the Holocaust

Question 4

This shows why Irwin doesn’t like the truth

Answer 4

Paradox works well and mists up the windows, which is handy. “The loss of liberty is the price we pay for freedom” type of thing

Question 5

When the boys first see Irwin in the French scene, this is the stage direction

Answer 5

There is a perceptible moment

Question 6

Nick Hytner, original director of the play, describes Irwin as this. Shows all points of view are equally valid

Answer 6

Swashbuckling relativism

Question 7

This shows Irwin’s modern, forward-thinking, populist views on history. Shows why he goes into showbiz

Answer 7

History nowadays is not a matter of conviction. It’s a performance. It’s entertainment. And if it isn’t, make it so.

Question 8

This stresses Irwin’s view on the need for originality

Answer 8

You can write down, Rudge, that ‘I must not write down every word the teacher says’

Question 9

Shows Irwin’s cynical views on literature. Knowledge is means to an end

Answer 9

Poetry is good up to a point. Adds flavour.

Question 10

This word shows what Irwin was trying to teach the boys. A…

Answer 10

Trick

Question 11

This contrasts with Hectors view of anti-examinations

Answer 11

Education isn’t something for when they’re old and grey and sitting by the its for now.