Historical Context (DNA)

This section explains the historical context of the play DNA by Dennis Kelly. DNA is a contemporary play written by Dennis Kelly, first performed in 2007, in an era before smart phones and the influence of social media. It explores the themes of peer pressure, bullying, morality, and responsibility. The story revolves around a group of teenagers who commit a crime and then try to cover it up, leading to unexpected consequences. Understanding the historical and social context is key to grasping the significance of the play and the behaviours of the characters.

Britain in the Early 2000s

When DNA was written and first performed, British society was undergoing several changes, both socially and politically. The early 2000s were marked by concerns about youth behaviour, education, and social inequality, which had a significant impact on the themes of the play.

Youth Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour

During this period, there was growing anxiety about the rise in youth crime and anti-social behaviour. The media often portrayed young people as 'troublemakers', particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The portrayal of the teenagers in DNA reflects this fear, as they engage in reckless and violent actions, suggesting a lack of moral guidance and social responsibility.

"Hoodie Culture"

The play captures the essence of what was sometimes referred to as "hoodie culture" — a term used to describe young people, particularly those in urban areas, who were often stereotyped as delinquents due to their clothing choices (hooded sweatshirts). In DNA, the group of teenagers embody these stereotypes, with their casual attitudes towards violence and their desire to fit in with the group at all costs.

Bullying and Peer Pressure

Throughout the 2000s, there was increasing awareness of the impact of bullying, particularly in schools. This period saw a rise in anti-bullying campaigns as part of efforts to address the mental health and well-being of young people. DNA addresses the devastating consequences of peer pressure and bullying, as each character struggles with the moral dilemmas and consequences of their collective actions.

Social Inequality and Education

Marginalised Youth

DNA also reflects the experiences of young people who feel alienated or disconnected from society. The characters come across as isolated, struggling with a lack of meaningful adult supervision and guidance. Their actions can be seen as a response to a sense of hopelessness and frustration, which might stem from their socio-economic conditions. The play highlights how social inequality can lead to a breakdown in moral values and personal accountability.

Failures of the Educational System

The play subtly critiques the British education system. The teenagers in DNA seem to be failed by the system, with their lack of communication skills, empathy, and ethical judgement. This might reflect concerns during the time about educational inequality and the failure of some schools to provide proper support and opportunities for young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Post-9/11 Fear and Distrust

Paranoia and Fear

The early 2000s were dominated by global events, such as the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in the United States and the London bombings in 2005. These events created a climate of fear, paranoia, and distrust, especially towards groups that were perceived as "other" or threatening. In DNA, there is a sense of paranoia among the group, as they constantly worry about being caught and try to shift blame onto others, which mirrors the larger social anxieties of the time.

Influence of Modern Media

Impact of Reality TV and Media Culture

In the 2000s, reality TV shows like Big Brother were at their height, with viewers watching contestants’ actions and moral choices under pressure. This media landscape influenced public discussions about morality, surveillance, and group dynamics. The characters in DNA could be seen as a reflection of a society increasingly interested in watching people’s behaviour and how they react under intense pressure.

Responsibility and the Media

The media played a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of young people during this time. There was often sensationalist coverage of teenage crime and anti-social behaviour, creating a stereotype of young people as out of control. In DNA, the group’s attempts to cover up their crime and manage the situation might reflect how individuals or groups are judged harshly in the public eye, leading to more extreme actions to avoid exposure.

Dennis Kelly's Personal and Political Views

Political Influence

Dennis Kelly is known for his politically charged writing, often focusing on issues of power, control, and the darker aspects of human nature. DNA reflects his interest in how groups behave under pressure and the moral choices individuals make when they are faced with a crisis. The play's focus on the darker side of human behaviour can be seen as a commentary on the moral ambiguity present in society at the time.

Human Nature and Morality

Kelly's writing often questions whether people are inherently good or bad. In DNA, this theme is explored through the teenagers’ actions, as they make morally questionable decisions but are still recognisable as everyday individuals. The characters’ shifting moral compasses may reflect a wider societal uncertainty about what constitutes right and wrong, particularly in the face of modern pressures.

DNA by Dennis Kelly is not just a play about a group of teenagers making a terrible mistake; it’s a reflection of the society in which it was written. The early 2000s were marked by concerns about youth crime, social inequality, and moral ambiguity. The play provides a snapshot of these anxieties, showing how peer pressure, lack of moral guidance, and social isolation can lead to disastrous consequences. Understanding this context helps to deepen our understanding of the characters' actions and the themes of the play, making it a relevant and thought-provoking piece for modern audiences.