Rupturing the Gender Boundary in John Osborne's Look Back in Anger

Abstract

The research work studies an independent female self against patriarchal society in JohnOsborne's Look Back in Anger.The study discusses women’s experience in patriarchal society as being dominated, suppressed and exploited. The play portrays a rebellious woman self who ignores patriarchal notion that confines a woman. Her voice is for independent woman identity in society therefore, she, with rebellious self and confidence, fights against society with her uncompromising, revolting and rebellious assertion. Her struggle against existing norms and values leads her toward physical and spiritual freedom. A woman character in patriarchal society cannot be free therefore; Alison struggles against patriarchal discourse which inferiorizes women individuality. Alison cannot convince her thought with Jimmy, therefore, she chooses her individual life rather than surrendering her freedom. Along with her individual notion, she fights against patriarchal power. The patriarchal social structure creates subordinate role for women but, Alison does not compromise with repressing power of patriarchy. By knowing her role and individuality in the society, she quests female self and independent freedom. In course of searching her freedom, she is able to create her individual world.