Worksheet on The History Boys: Homosexuality
English
Grade 8
9 questions
~18 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet analyzing the portrayal of homosexuality in The History Boys, designed for Grade 8 students to explore themes, techniques, and character dynamics.
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Worksheet on The History Boys: Homosexuality
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 8
A
Scene Summary and Context
In Act 2 of The History Boys, a pivotal scene unfolds where the characters discuss their personal identities and societal expectations. The scene is set in a classroom, with teachers and students engaged in a candid conversation about love, attraction, and societal norms. The dialogue subtly hints at homosexual themes through the characters' expressions and choice of words, such as 'hidden truths' and 'closeted feelings.' The playwright employs dialogue, tone, and character interaction to explore the complexities of sexuality during a time of social change. For instance, one character reflects, 'Sometimes, what we hide is what defines us,' emphasizing themes of concealment and self-acceptance. The scene demonstrates how characters navigate their inner conflicts within the constraints of social expectations, using language that carries layered meanings. Analyzing such quotations reveals how playwright Alan Bennett uses subtlety and nuance to address sensitive topics, prompting audiences to consider issues of identity, secrecy, and societal pressure in the context of modern and historical perspectives.
B
Questions
Answer the following questions based on the scene summary and quotes provided.
1.
What thematic elements are suggested by the phrase 'hidden truths' in the context of the scene?
[2 marks]2.
Identify a literary technique used in the dialogue that subtly hints at homosexual themes.
[2 marks]3.
Explain how the phrase 'what we hide is what defines us' relates to the characters' experiences.
4.
What tone does the playwright create through the language of the scene? Support your answer with an example.
[2 marks]5.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes the playwright's approach to depicting sexuality in this scene?
[1 mark]Aa) Overt and explicit
Bb) Subtle and layered
Cc) Comedic and lighthearted
Dd) Dismissive and indirect
6.
Identify one character trait that influences how they handle their sexuality in this scene.
[2 marks]7.
Analyze how dialogue contributes to building suspense about the characters' true feelings.
8.
Creative Writing Prompt: Write a short monologue from the perspective of a character grappling with their sexuality in a conservative society. Use language that hints at their internal struggle.
9.
What do the subtle hints in the dialogue suggest about societal attitudes towards homosexuality during the play's setting?
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet