Hector as the Fool in the Histroy Boys

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Stott defines the fool as a “collection of contradictions and quandaries”. How far do these characteristics of Hector aid the comedy in The History Boys? Hector is show in his introduction as being jovial and as he jokes with his students, playing along with them as they remove his motorcycle gear, naming each item in French as they remove it. It does show that he and his students speak fluent French which is part of the evidence of his vast knowledge. The class then promptly settle down and it is clear that the class loves him by the cohesiveness of their interaction. The quick change of lesson tone shows that while Hector is a figure of fun he does have a serious side and does want to teach them. He is shown to be knowledgeable, using the word “otiose” and making a point in having Posner define it to the class, and being able to quote scholars such as A. E. Housman in conversation which he uses to test the class. This scene shows that Hector is very intelligent and serves to aid the comedy though the interactions of him and the boys. It is not and expected way for teachers and students to interact: students removing their teachers motorcycling clothes each item with an elaborate flourish, naming each item in, and exclusively speaking, fluent French it does easily set up his character as a very well-read and learned individual. This is in contrast to the silly side of Hector which teaches his class “all the words of When I’m Cleaning Windows” by George Formby, as the Headmaster later reveals. The contradictions of Hectors personality is well illustrated through this. One part of him is rather venerable, and possesses vast tracts of arcane knowledge and can quote poetry by heart. This side praises the old and shows a love of High Art, poetry, theatre and the like. The other side of him is more childish and excitable, delighting in everything, no matter how

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