Peter Barnes
British playwright and screenwriter
Last Updated: Jun 27, 2019 See Article History
Originally published in the Britannica Book of the Year. Presented as archival content. Learn more.
This article was originally published in the Britannica Book of the Year, an annual print publication that provides an overview of the year's most-notable people and events. Unlike most articles on Britannica.com, Book of the Year articles are not reviewed and revised after their initial publication. Rather, they are presented on the site as archival content, intended for historical reference only.
Peter Barnes, British playwright and screenwriter (born Jan. 10, 1931, London, Eng.—died July 1, 2004, London), was an imaginative, thoroughly unorthodox—and often underappreciated—writer best known for the satiric play The Ruling Class (1968), which he adapted for a 1972 film starring Peter O'Toole. Barnes combined unconventional dramatic sensibilities and extravagant wit with an appreciation of earlier playwrights such as Frank Wedekind, Ben Jonson, and Georges Feydeau. Barnes's many other works included the Oliver Award-winning play Red Noses (1985) and the Oscar-nominated screenplay for Enchanted April (1992).
This article was most recently revised and updated by Karen Sparks, Director and Editor, Britannica Book of the Year.
July 1, 2004 (aged 73)
"The Ruling Class"
Independent - Obituary of Peter Barnes
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