When We Are Married (Oberon Modern Plays)
Hereford Plays Series
on Goodreads (128)
What’s inside...
This series presents a wide choice of 20th-century drama with scene-by-scene analysis, structured questions, and assignment suggestions for GCSE. The story revolves around the silver wedding celebrations of three couples in Northern England, who are upset when doubt is cast on the validity of their marriages. All three were married on the same day, at the same church, and by the same vicar, and are now celebrating 25 years of what they believe to be blissful matrimony.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-12
Length
84 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Alderman Joseph Helliwell
Mrs. Northrop
Clara Soppitt
Annie Parker
Maria Helliwell
Ruby Birtle
Gerald Forbes
Henry Ormonroyd
Herbert Soppitt
Councillor Albert Parker
Discussion points
What do you think the characters learned about themselves by the end of the play?
How do the characters’ relationships change throughout the play?
Why is honesty important in the characters' relationships?
What would you have done differently if you were one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize pauses after each question to give your child time to think and express their thoughts.
Encourage your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own life or to situations they may find familiar.
Discuss the importance of trust and communication in relationships, drawing parallels to the play’s narrative.
Highlight the moral and ethical dilemmas presented in the play and ask your child how they would navigate similar challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: The characters in 'When We Are Married' face various humorous situations that underline the consequences of dishonesty in relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of being truthful in their interactions with others, which can lead to more trusting and meaningful relationships.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The play showcases different couples working through their issues together, highlighting the power of cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to work cooperatively in group settings, be it in school projects or team sports, enhancing their social and cooperative skills.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: As characters come from different backgrounds, the play emphasizes understanding and respecting diverse perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace diversity and respect others' opinions, which is crucial in a globally connected world.
Example Lesson: Dealing with conflict
Explanation: The narrative presents conflicts among characters that are resolved through communication, portraying the importance of addressing issues openly.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their feelings and resolve disputes through dialogue, fostering better communication skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of commitment
Explanation: Throughout the play, themes of loyalty and commitment in relationships are explored, emphasizing their value in personal connections.
Real-World Application: Teaching the significance of commitment can help children develop a sense of responsibility and integrity in their personal relationships and commitments.