Blood Brothers

    AQA
    GCSE

    Blood Brothers is a musical play by Willy Russell that follows the tragic lives of twin brothers, Mickey and Edward, who are separated at birth. Set in Liverpool between the 1960s and 1980s, the narrative explores the 'nature vs nurture' debate as one twin is raised in working-class poverty (Mickey) and the other in middle-class affluence (Edward). Despite their mothers' attempts to keep them apart, they meet as children and become 'blood brothers'. As they grow up, the socioeconomic divide widens, exacerbated by unemployment and a love triangle involving their childhood friend, Linda. The play utilizes a cyclical structure, beginning with their deaths, and employs a Narrator to highlight themes of fate, superstition, and class inequality.

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    Learning Objectives

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    • Understand key concepts related to Blood Brothers
    • Apply knowledge of Blood Brothers to exam questions

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    • "Your analysis of the theme of fate is strong, particularly your use of the "devil's got your number" quote."
    • "Consider developing your points further by exploring the impact of social class on Mrs. Johnstone's decisions."
    • "You have a good understanding of the plot; now focus on analysing Russell's techniques."
    • "Well done on structuring your answer logically. Ensure all points are supported with specific textual evidence."

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