Literary Sphere

John Osborne (1929-1994) – UGC NET English Literature Notes John Osborne was a highly influential English playwright, screenwriter, and actor. His groundbreaking play Look Back in Anger (1956) is considered a pivotal moment in post-war British theatre, ushering in an era of social realism and giving voice to the "Angry Young Men" movement. Understanding his life, works, themes, and style is crucial for the UGC NET English Literature exam. 1. Biography and Context Early Life: Born in London to a working-class mother and a middle-class father, Osborne experienced social and economic disparities firsthand. His difficult relationship with his parents, particularly his mother, significantly influenced his writing. "Angry Young Men": A central figure of this 1950s literary and cultural movement, Osborne expressed disillusionment with the British class system, political conservatism, and lack of social mobility. These writers h...