Historical Context of "Keeping it from Harold"
The Edwardian Era Setting
P.G. Wodehouse's short story "Keeping it from Harold" is set in the Edwardian era (early 1900s), a time of significant social change in British society. This period provides crucial context for understanding the story's central conflict and characters.
NoteThe Edwardian era marked a transition between Victorian values and modern sensibilities, which is reflected in the story's treatment of social class and respectability.
Boxing and Social Class
One of the most important historical elements is the role of boxing in early 20th century British society:
- Professional boxing was considered a working-class profession
- There was a stark divide between "genteel" occupations and physical trades
- Boxing matches were popular entertainment but viewed as somewhat disreputable by the upper classes
This class tension is evident in the story through Bill Bramble's desire to hide his boxing career from his son Harold, who is being educated at a prestigious school. The father's shame about his profession reflects the period's complex social hierarchies.
Education and Social Mobility
The story's treatment of education reflects key historical realities:
- Growing emphasis on formal education as a path to social advancement
- Rise of grammar schools and increasing access to education for working-class children
- Tension between traditional working-class occupations and academic aspirations
Understanding the period's attitude toward education helps explain why Bill and Jane are so concerned about Harold's academic future and reputation at school.
The Role of Respectability
The concept of "respectability" was crucial in Edwardian society:
