Published in 1982 and written by Willy Russel, Educating Rita portrays the story of Frank, a university lecturer, and Rita, an undereducated woman from Liverpool, as they embark on their quest for higher education. Against the backdrop of the 80s, the book highlights some of the most significant moments in British history concerning women's access to education after finishing school. Initially, the two characters are presented as an unconventional "odd" couple.
The initial scene depicts Frank's frenzied quest for a beverage, suggestive of his penchant for alcohol. The abrupt ring of his mobile phone alerts him to Julia's call, wherein he curtly rebuffs any customary pleasantries.
'Yes?... of course I'm still here!'
Viewers/readers can tell from Frank's dull conversation that his relationship with the person on the other end is lacking in romance.
...This piques the audience's interest because they want to know why such an educated man is so unhappy. Then, there is a knock at the door.
Frank bids farewell to Julia and clarifies the reason for his absence during tonight's dinner; he needs to "erase" the memory of a "foolish" woman who attempted to comprehend the works of Henry James or whatever author they are expected to analyze in their class.
. Why did I ever agree to do this?!
'Frank hangs up the phone to answer the door, where Rita tumbles in. Despite being a stranger, we quickly find her relatable and endearing due to her humorous first words.'
Despite her poor language and lack of intelligence, Rita's enthusiastic personality captivates and overwhelms us. Her frankness is immediately evident as she comments on various objects in the room, including a painting that catches her eye with it
erotic content. This forwardness surprises Frank greatly.
Frank states that he had not viewed the picture in approximately ten years and assumes it is erotic. However, he acknowledges the obviousness of its eroticism due to the prominence of the female subject's breasts. Previously, Frank had only regarded the image as art. Rita's presence in the play prompts Frank to contemplate new ideas. This captivates the audience and inspires intrigue as they follow Rita's journey towards education.
The story is not only about a working class woman's romance and struggles but also a comparison of two very different social worlds. Frank likely went to a private school while Rita likely attended a comprehensive school. Frank's idea of a night out involves visiting a respectable restaurant followed by a wine bar, whereas Rita would prefer to grab some fish and chips to-go before heading to her local pub. The audience is intrigued to witness how the characters' relationship will evolve amidst the obstacles created by the clash of cultures in the story.
Willy Russel created a unique situation for the two characters to meet, which is a departure from the typical approach of writers using contrived events to allow characters to meet. One of the standout features of this play is its humor, which doesn't stem from the actions of the characters but rather the clash of cultures evident in their conversation. Frank possesses an extensive vocabulary while Rita's is more basic and colloquial at the beginning of the play. However, as her character evolves over time, she adopts a more refined dialect with Frank in mind.
Frank embodies the typical middle-class gentleman, proficiently utilizing specialized vocabulary to express his
opinions. The characters undergo a significant transformation by the conclusion of the play, distinct from their initial depictions. Rita's evolution in appearance and personality is evident as she progresses through her educational journey with Frank. Prior to their encounter, she possessed scant knowledge of literature and fine arts.
The students at her university are now engaging in literary discussions with Rita. Previously, she had adopted a fake accent, possibly to impress Frank or to elevate her own self-worth. It is uncertain if Rita's change in fashion was influenced by Frank or not. Frank's transformation is not an improvement; conversely, Rita's changes may not be beneficial either. In the play, Frank constantly drinks alcohol, affecting his perception of Rita's metamorphosis. Throughout the first act, Willy Russel suggests that Rita and Frank have a promising relationship.
Nobody desires the union of Frank and Rita more than the audience, particularly upon discovering that they are in unsatisfactory relationships. The flirting between them is skillfully concealed and primarily conveyed through their dialogue. If one were to envision their on-screen interaction, it would resemble a murderous scene as they exchange lustful gazes, lick their lips, and raise their eyebrows.
The reason for their strong attraction is their ability to bring a refreshing change in each other's lives. However, their relationship starts going downhill in the second act as Frank feels envious of Rita's newfound friends at university. As Rita develops her own perspective on her studies, Frank feels threatened by it.
As Rita's personality transforms due to alcohol, Frank's inner dominant male emerges, causing him to resent her. He attempts to take over her education and dictate her actions, causing tension for viewers
who question if their relationship will ultimately sour.
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