A new book by Professor John Kirk, titled Working Class Heroes: How British Culture Celebrates the Lives of Ordinary People, suggests that pupils study working-class culture as part of the national curriculum. The book argues that working-class culture has been a vital source of inspiration and creativity for many artists, writers and musicians, and that it deserves more recognition and appreciation. The book also lists 10 cultural works that celebrate the working class, ranging from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist to The Specials’ Ghost Town. These works are uplifting classics that show the resilience, diversity and dignity of the working class, and how they have shaped British society and identity.
