[Kylie Lang]

I was also wondering the same thing about whether the role of Betty was meant to be played by a man and the role of Edward to be played by a woman. It was a bit confusing and shocking at the start of the play, but as the plot developed it seemed to fit in with the main theme that the writer was trying to demonstrate concerning identity and social norms. Although we know that Betty is a woman and Edward is a boy, by having the role reversals the audience is able to further understand the characters’ identities aided by implications made and personality as well as a visual indication. I think that this was also done to have historical accuracy to some degree since Edward, for example, would be seen as feminine, different and “girly” (as called by Joshua) because he liked playing with dolls. However, with the transition in Act II, Edward is played by a man to show the change in society’s view towards homosexuals. In Act I, Clive states that Harry is “disgusting” for his homosexual acts and Betty rejects Ellen. In Act II, Betty talks about her knowledge of Lin, Victoria and Edward’s relationship but seems to accept it. Aside from this impact in my reading of the play, the role reversal was also added for ironic and comedic effect.

[Author]

Posts