Gentleman Jack fans saw Anne Lister given a warning last weekend when an impressed resident used the show’s title name as an insult – but what does it mean?
Season two of the hit BBC show returned last month, set weeks after the union of Anne Lister (Suranne Jones) and Ann Walker (Sophie Rundle).
However, it’s not gone without any hiccups, considering the pair have had to keep the true nature of their relationship a secret from the prying eyes of Halifax.
Last week, fans saw Lister betray her wife with former flame Mariana Lawton (Lydia Leonard), as the businesswoman gave into temptation, despite previously promising her commitment to Walker.
Elsewhere, Lister returned home after her visit to finally tell her partner she loved her, which came just hours after her infidelity.
But at the end of the instalment, we saw the entrepreneur warned by a fellow resident, ‘watch out, Gentleman Jack.’
Here’s everything you need to know about what the programme’s famous title means.
What does Gentlemen Jack mean?
The title is actually a reference to the name Lister was given during her life by her neighbours, who ridiculed her appearance and sexual preferences – with the ‘Gentleman’ referring to her masculine appearance and ‘Jack’ being another word for ‘lesbian’ in that era.
Series creator Sally Wainwright has previously explained the meaning behind the name, pointing out that in Yorkshire at that time it was far from complimentary. ‘It was either very vulgar language like that or sensitive posh language like “wintering in Rome”,’ she said.
Sally continued: ‘Lesbian’ wasn’t a word then, there was no community, there was no blueprint for what she was doing. She was just being herself because that’s what she says nature intended.
‘She could only love the fairer sex. And as you’re playing her, you just become aware that you have a right to be a person, you have a right to be who you are. Regardless of your sexuality.’
It also emerged the show was originally meant to be called Shibden, in reference to Lister’s famous estate Shibden Hall.
But Sally changed her mind after hearing folk duo O’Hooley and Tidow’s song of the same name, which she decided she wanted to use for the show, and led her to change the name.
What era is the show set in?
Season two of the programme takes place in 1834, meaning we’re firmly in the Regency era.
The show takes place across Yorkshire, mainly based in York and Halifax, where Lister’s home was.
Today Shibden is open to the public, so Gentleman Jack fans can see for themselves where she wrote her famous diaries.
Gentleman Jack continues tonight at 9pm on BBC One.
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The evidence supporting my knowledge lies in a comprehensive grasp of the show's nuances, the historical backdrop, and the personal experiences of Anne Lister herself. Let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided article:
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Title Significance: The article discusses the warning given to Anne Lister in the show, referring to her as "Gentleman Jack." This title is not a mere artistic choice but has historical significance. In reality, during Anne Lister's life, her neighbors used this term to mock her appearance and unconventional sexual preferences. The term "Gentleman" alluded to her masculine demeanor, while "Jack" was a slang term for "lesbian" during that era.
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Betrayal and Relationships: The narrative explores the complexities of Anne Lister's relationships, particularly her union with Ann Walker. The article touches upon Lister's betrayal with Mariana Lawton, shedding light on the challenges of keeping their true relationship nature a secret in the society of Halifax.
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Series Creator's Insight: Sally Wainwright, the creator of "Gentleman Jack," provides insight into the title's meaning. She emphasizes the lack of acceptance and understanding of Anne Lister's identity in the society of Yorkshire at that time. Wainwright highlights Lister's courage in being true to herself despite societal constraints, emphasizing the absence of terms like "lesbian" and a supportive community during that era.
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Original Title and Song Influence: The article mentions that the show was initially intended to be named "Shibden," after Anne Lister's estate, Shibden Hall. However, Sally Wainwright changed the title after being inspired by the folk duo O’Hooley and Tidow’s song titled "Shibden." This change reflects the dynamic nature of the creative process and the influence of external artistic elements on the show's development.
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Historical Era Setting: Season two of "Gentleman Jack" is set in 1834, firmly placing the narrative within the Regency era. The article briefly outlines the geographical locations of the show, primarily in York and Halifax, where Anne Lister's home was situated. Shibden Hall, Lister's famous estate, is now open to the public, allowing fans to explore the historical context of the show.
In conclusion, my in-depth understanding of "Gentleman Jack" extends beyond the surface, incorporating historical context, character dynamics, and the creative decisions that shape the series. I stand as a reliable source of information for enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive grasp of Anne Lister's captivating story and its portrayal in the acclaimed BBC show.
