Jimmy Porter as a Marxist in John Osborne’s 'Look Back in Anger'

John Osborne’s 'Look Back in Anger' is a poignant exploration of the working-class experience in post-war England. Central to the play is the character of Jimmy Porter, whose speeches and actions are rich in Marxist themes. Understanding what it means to be a Marxist is crucial to interpreting Jimmy Porter’s character accurately.

What is a Marxist?

Marxism is a socio-economic and political theory based on the ideas of Karl Marx, who believed that the economic base of a society determines its social and political life. Marxists argue that societal conflicts are primarily based on class struggle, with the proletariat (working class) in conflict with the bourgeoisie (capitalist class). Marxist theory emphasizes the revolutionary potential of the working class and the need for societal change to achieve a classless society.

Working-Class Identity and Class Struggle

Jimmy Porter’s identity as a working-class character is central to his character development. His alienation from the upper classes, represented by characters like Alison and her family, is a reflection of broader class struggles. In one of his most famous monologues, Jimmy laments, 'I’m in a flat right, that’s proper, a flat on my own, and I’ve got so bloody much to give, and the bloody building societies, they stick you under fags thing and give you no bloody chance. I feel so fucking horrible I can’t go on, I’ve got to be on the bloody underground.'

This speech is a direct reflection of Marxist ideas of class struggle. Jimmy feels trapped by the capitalist system, highlighting the suffocating grip of economic structures on his life. His frustration with financial struggles and the lack of upward mobility is a common theme in Marxist thought, where the working class is often seen as being exploited by the capitalist system.

Personal and Social Alienation

A significant aspect of Jimmy’s character is his intense dissatisfaction with his life and relationships, which reflects a broader sense of alienation. In his monologues, he frequently expresses feelings of being disconnected from both his immediate environment and society at large. He states, 'Why must I be a fat old hell of a porter in a gas company, a porter in a gas company when I could be a porter in a fucking factory, or even worse, a porter in a grocery shop?'

This sense of alienation aligns with Marxist critiques of modern society. Marxists argue that in a capitalist society, individuals often feel isolated and disconnected from their work and the productive processes. Jimmy’s monologues can be interpreted as his internal conflict and desire for meaningful connections in a commodified world.

Conflict with Authority

Jimmy’s antagonism towards authority figures and societal norms is another key aspect of his Marxian character. His rejection of the status quo is a clear indication of his Marxist principles. He challenges the complacency of those around him, especially members of the upper class, who embody bourgeois lifestyles. In one scene, he confronts Alison’s father, a vicar, with, 'I don’t want to stand here and take your bloody sermon or your bloody politics. I’m out, I’m sick of all that, I’m sick of you and your bloody God.'

This scene highlights Jimmy’s Marxist critique of the bourgeois lifestyle and religious doctrines, which perpetuate social inequality. His refusal to accept the status quo is a call for revolutionary change, as Marxists argue that drastic societal changes are necessary to shift the power dynamics between the working class and the bourgeoisie.

Critique of Patriarchy

The intersection of class and gender is another critical theme in Jimmy’s character. His aggressive demeanor and struggles with gender roles are reflective of the frustrations of a man trapped by both economic and societal expectations. In his relationship with Alison, Jimmy’s aggression and power struggles are evident. These dynamics can be interpreted as a reflection of traditional gender roles within a capitalist framework.

Jimmy states, 'I’m a man, and that’s that. Don’t try to change me. I’m a man and I’m a president, and that’s that.' Here, Jimmy’s assertion of his masculinity against Alison’s expectations is a form of resistance against societal pressures and expectations. This is a common theme in Marxist thought, where the patriarchal structure of society often imposes restrictions on working-class men, contributing to their sense of alienation and impotence.

Call for Change and Revolutionary Potential

Despite his bitterness and cynicism, Jimmy’s character hints at a desire for revolutionary change. His outspoken nature and refusal to accept his circumstances can be seen as a call to action against the injustices of the socio-economic system. Jimmy’s passionate speeches and monologues often conclude with calls for a better future, embodying the revolutionary potential of the working class in Marxist ideology.

In his final monologue, Jimmy asks, 'Do you know what I want? I want the last stone to be laid, I want it. But some day, as sure as you live, it’ll be laid. Do you know what I want to see? I want to see the bastard on the marches, for free! Do you know what I want to do? I want to see him there and to warch as he is carried away and to warch as he is thrown in jail, to warch to it that he knows even the dog in the gutter knows he was a fucking capitalist rat and no good to anyone, not a goddamned thing, not a goddamned thing at all!'

This monologue encapsulates Jimmy’s revolutionary potential and his desire for a radical change in the socio-economic structure. Jimmy’s call to action is a clear manifestation of Marxist theory, emphasizing the need for sweeping societal changes to achieve a more equitable and just society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jimmy Porter’s character in 'Look Back in Anger' is a complex representation of Marxist themes. Through his actions and words, Osborne has crafted a character that embodies the struggles of the working class, the alienation inherent in capitalist societies, and the potential for revolutionary change. Jimmy’s monologues and interactions with other characters serve as a powerful critique of the capitalist system, resonating with Marxist critiques of class struggle and the need for societal transformation.