1bilbo seems confused. The original is set in a public school (not a grammar school) and there is therefore a subliminal gay message in the pedagogue/pupil relationship (Playwright, director, and lead were all gay/bi) but also the resolution (arguably) of the cruel wife being abandoned by her lover in favour of manly friendship. Having been to a public school (in the 70s) I can also say that the study of Classics inevitably meant one became aware of homosexuality in a way that didn't happen with other subjects (Greeks, Romans, let it all hang loose and all that). I presume this is why 1bilbo favours the original as a paean to old-fashioned public school values.
I don't like remakes and haven't seen this one, but the one thing of which I am certain is that Rattigan did not mean his play to be seen as a critique of widening of the education system to all classes (or alternatively the supremacy of private education). I am equally certain that 1bilbo has no idea of whether the comprehensive system has provided better or worse educated people as he (I am pretty certain he is a he) has never looked this up. What I am sure he cannot argue with is that having a large proportion of the country considering themselves rejects at 11 and being sent to sub-standard secondary moderns that didn't even teach the same exams (the almost worthless CSE anyone?) is not a good education system.
I don't like remakes and haven't seen this one, but the one thing of which I am certain is that Rattigan did not mean his play to be seen as a critique of widening of the education system to all classes (or alternatively the supremacy of private education). I am equally certain that 1bilbo has no idea of whether the comprehensive system has provided better or worse educated people as he (I am pretty certain he is a he) has never looked this up. What I am sure he cannot argue with is that having a large proportion of the country considering themselves rejects at 11 and being sent to sub-standard secondary moderns that didn't even teach the same exams (the almost worthless CSE anyone?) is not a good education system.
