Page 1 - The Browning Version -LESSON NOTE
P. 1
The Browning Version
---- By Terence Rattigan
It is an extract from the play The Browning Version written by Terence Rattigan which is focused on
a good but unpopular school teacher Mr Crocker Harris. It vividly brings about the agony of a
dedicated teacher who has a strict attitude towards his students. Frank young teacher, Crocker
Harris- old teacher, Taplow-a boy of sixteen.
IMP.CHARACTERS
Crocker Harris
· Different kind of teacher
· Strict disciplinarian, hard working and fully devoted to his duties.
· does not tell his students their results before the last day of the term. Taplow had asked Mr.
Crocker-Harris about his remove and in response the teacher told him that he has given Taplow
exactly what he deserves - "No less; and certainly no more".
· Frank admits envying Mr. Crocker-Harris for the effect he has on his students.
· He is not the sort of a person who would beat students and vent out his frustration on students.
· He is hard like a nut all shrivelled up.Never respond to feelings shown by the students.
· Taplow admits that in spite of all this, he likes Mr. Crocker-Harris.
Taplow
· A boy of sixteen.
· Came to school to do extra work for Crocker Harris as he had missed a class a week ago.
· He dislikes the play Agamemnon and is more interested in science.
· He is a good mimic as he imitates Croker Harris's voice and style very well.
· Liked Crocker Harris even though he was a strict teacher.
· He does not consider him a sadist. He admires Crocker Harris.
· He does not want to make Crocker Harris angry by displeasing him in any manner.
· When Frank suggests him that he could play and come back as there are very bleak chances of
Crocker Harris's coming, he refuses to do so.
Frank
· Frank is a young teacher.
· He shows a better understanding of student behaviour and psychology.
· He is humble towards his students.