History boys character notes

History boys character notes

Irwin- Quite young looking, Scripp's believed he was another student on first impression. Tries to use humour to get on the boys level, but can tend to let his self go past the teacher boundaries. Quite an intelligent but furtive character, uses different clever(sometimes harsh) techniques to teach the boys differently to other teachers. Can be slightly theatrical and over dramatic at times. One foreshadow in the play is that when Irwin writes his name it looks like 'I ruin'. Subtle with crudeness, but still has elements of it. Always sets the discourse for the lesson. Irwin's motivation is to be remembered by the boys, like Hector will be. Education is a game to him.


Hector- Uses language as a disguise. Does to conform to rules of teaching/education. Doesn't respect the students(not really respected either though). Tries to cover up true meanings of what he says by preaches or rants. Insecure and selfish character. Egotistical. Later found out to be a paedophile. No boundaries between him and students. Lets his emotions interfere with his teaching. Creates private world with students(verbal fig leaf). Eccentric. Prides himself in not teaching for an exam.

Mrs Lintott- Has some of the most morally right reactions/quotations. Doesn't allow emotion to cloud judgement/teaching but does care for the boys and shows kindness on quite a few occasions. Only female teacher. Most realistic character, sets Hector straight but doesn't treat him like a monster.  Traditional. Teaches facts and figures. Boys get excellent results due to her teaching.

Headmaster- Utilitarian character. Lets Hector overpower him. Only thinks of boys exam results and not their futures. Selfish. No sense of humour.

Posner- In love with Dakin. Quiet and shy, Jewish. Loves singing. Confused about sexuality. Allows himself to be the joke of the class, lets people take the mickey out on him. Loves reading.

Dakin- Sure of himself. Arrogant and full of himself. Doesn't like that Irwin isn't as affected by him as everyone else is. Over confident.

Scripps- Is predisposed with exploring his Christianity. Budding writer. Records events in his note book. Posner confides in him.

Rudge- Star rugby player whose ability shocks everyone. Only authentic person. Finds Irwins teaching style difficult.

Akthar- Muslim- this is often referred to. Happy to get involved.

Timms- The joker of the group- often whacked by Hector for this. Enjoys teasing Irwin.