
Melvyn Bragg delves into the intricate and evolving relationship between class and culture in Britain over a century, from 1911 to 2011. The documentary examines how social hierarchies have shaped cultural expression and how cultural shifts, in turn, have influenced perceptions of class. Bragg traces the journey from the rigid class structures of the early 20th century, where access to high culture was often a privilege of the elite, to the more fluid and dynamic cultural landscape of the 21st century, where mass media and democratization have blurred traditional boundaries. The narrative highlights key moments, such as the rise of working-class literature and music in the mid-20th century, which challenged the dominance of upper-class cultural norms. Figures like playwright John Osborne and bands like The Beatles are spotlighted for their role in breaking down class barriers through art. Bragg also explores how institutions like the BBC and public education reforms attempted to bridge cultural divides, though not always successfully. By the end of the century, the documentary reflects on the paradox of a society where class distinctions persist even as culture becomes more accessible. Bragg questions whether culture has truly become a unifying force or if it merely masks enduring inequalities. The film leaves viewers pondering the complex interplay between class identity and cultural participation in modern Britain.
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