8. The History Man

An A to Z of UK Television Drama

Andy and Martin don their tank tops and kipper ties to go back to The University of Watermouth in 1972 where progressive sociology lecturer Howard Kirk (Antony Sher) eagerly awaits the new academic year with all its promise of conquests, protests and political shenanigans. Malcolm Bradbury's 1975 novel was adapted for TV by Christopher Hampton in 1981 finding a 10pm slot on BBC2 where it shocked, provoked and possibly titillated a newly Conservative Britain. They find much to enjoy therein as they consider the fading socialist dream of the 70s, the lens of a 1981 perspective on a 1975 novel (which itself is a lens on a 1972-set narrative), its treatment of sexuality and gender politics, and the glorious accuracy of what might just be the most perfect committee meeting ever filmed, A fantastic supporting cast included Geraldine James, Sir Michael Hordern, Isla Blair, Paul Brooke and Miriam Margolyes. Next time: I Claudius