Howard Brenton’s interesting new play takes up the story after the Arab Revolt (1916-1918) was over. The Arabs had fought on the understanding they would be granted independence. The Brits and the French reneged on their promise and carved up the Middle East. We are still living with the consequences.
Lawrence played a major role in the fighting, working for the Arabs (comrade in arms with Prince Feisel) whilst at the same time working for British Intelligence (spying for General Allenby). Riddled with guilt for betraying the Arabs, he felt he deserved to be whipped to death. It is, however, generally agreed amongst his contemporaries that he fantasised about being gang-raped by the Turkish soldiers.
Lawrence found fame difficult and once the war was over he didn’t want to be Lawrence of Arabia any more. He wanted anonymity and took refuge with Bernard and Charlotte Shaw, hiding from the press in their home in the village of Ayot St Lawrence.
Brenton is well served by the actors in John Dove’s production. Jack Laskey is Lawrence, Jeff Rawle and Geraldine James are the Shaws and William Chubb is Allenby.