How do you think the audience at the first London performance of 'Hobson's Choice' in 1916 would have reacted to the development of Willie Mossop?

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Sam Liu

How do you think the audience at the first London performance of ‘Hobson’s Choice’ in 1916 would have reacted to the development of Willie Mossop?

The audience of the first performance of ‘Hobson’s Choice’ would have a varied opinion of the development of Willie Mossop. The majority of the audience would have been from that of a wealthy middle class family or of high birth, as these were the people of Edwardian society who were able to afford entrance to such productions. These people could relate themselves to Hobson himself and how he treats Willie Mossop, someone of a lower birth.

        From the very beginning of the play, the audience is complimented by Hobson, or their social status and well being; Hobson describes himself as ‘middle class and proud of it’. Also, Hobson says that he ‘stands for common sense and sincerity’.  This compliment allows the audience to feel proud of their status and as a result of this; they look towards Willie in a shameful undignified way.

        When Willie Mossop first appears, he does so from the ‘trap door leading to the cellar where the work is done’, this stage direction reflects the workers were lower beings and were unheard and unseen by many of their social superiors. The audience at the sight of Willie Mossop would have felt some sympathy towards him. He is ‘lanky’ in stature and the poor ragged clothes he was supporting adding to this. However, the audience can also feel proud of their riches, for they do not have to work like Willie and are able to afford decent clothing.

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        The appearance of Willie was not the only thing which made the audience look down on him, his name at this early part of the play was very informal. If Willie was respected in society, he would most indefinitely have been referred to as William-something more respected and formal.

        Towards the end of Act one, we see Maggie, Hobson’s daughter defying her father by trying to marry Willie. The audience would have been shocked at this. Firstly the middle class did little interacting with their social inferiors so marriage was not in question. However, Maggie presents herself at this ...

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