Thomas Shelby, the enigmatic leader of the Peaky Blinders, is rarely seen without a cigarette dangling from his lips. In Episode 1, he, like the rest of his family, is almost certainly smoking a tobacco cigarette, hand-rolled and likely containing a potent blend of dark, unfiltered tobacco. This reflects the era, the character’s working-class origins, and the social prevalence of smoking in post-World War I England.
The Smoke-Filled Reality of 1919 Birmingham
The grim realities of post-war Birmingham are as much a character in Peaky Blinders as Tommy himself. The air is thick with coal smoke, the factories churn out industrial grit, and the men and women find solace – or at least distraction – in the burning tip of a cigarette. Smoking wasn’t a social faux pas; it was deeply ingrained in the culture. For Tommy, it’s more than just a habit; it’s a coping mechanism, a tool for contemplation, and a symbol of his power. He often uses the act of lighting and smoking a cigarette to punctuate his thoughts, intimidate his rivals, and maintain a facade of control in a chaotic world.
Understanding the Tobacco of the Time
While the specific brand of tobacco isn’t explicitly mentioned in the show (and wouldn’t likely be branded in the same way we see today), we can infer that it would be unfiltered, strong, and likely a blend of dark tobaccos. Cigarettes were often hand-rolled, allowing individuals to customize the strength and flavor. The harshness of the smoke contributes to the hardened image of Tommy Shelby and the other characters. It represents the tough lives they lead and the difficult choices they make.
FAQs About Thomas Shelby’s Smoking Habit
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the subject of Tommy Shelby’s smoking habits:
FAQ 1: Why does Tommy smoke so much?
Tommy’s constant smoking is multifaceted. It’s a period-accurate depiction of the prevalence of smoking in the 1920s. More importantly, it serves as a symbolic representation of his internal struggles. He’s a war veteran haunted by PTSD, a ruthless businessman constantly navigating treacherous deals, and a complex individual burdened by a dark past. Smoking offers him a momentary escape, a ritual to calm his nerves, and a way to project an image of unwavering resolve.
FAQ 2: Does Tommy ever smoke anything other than tobacco cigarettes?
While the primary focus is on tobacco cigarettes, the series hints at other substances. Given the era and the Shelby family’s involvement in illicit activities, it’s plausible that they occasionally indulge in opium or other drugs, particularly in later seasons. However, the vast majority of Tommy’s on-screen smoking involves tobacco.
FAQ 3: Is Cillian Murphy, the actor who plays Tommy, a smoker in real life?
No, Cillian Murphy is reportedly a non-smoker. To maintain the authenticity of the character without jeopardizing his health, he smokes herbal cigarettes on set. These cigarettes contain no nicotine or tobacco and are designed to look and feel like real cigarettes.
FAQ 4: How did smoking impact people in the 1920s, given our modern understanding of its health risks?
In the 1920s, the link between smoking and serious health conditions like lung cancer was not yet widely understood. Smoking was considered a normal and even glamorous activity. The lack of awareness regarding health risks contributed to its widespread acceptance and prevalence. People smoked freely in public places, homes, and workplaces.
FAQ 5: What kind of cigarette papers would Tommy likely use?
Given the era and the Shelbys’ status, Tommy would likely use simple, unbleached cigarette papers. These would be easily accessible and affordable. The emphasis was on function over aesthetics; the priority was to have a convenient way to roll and smoke tobacco.
FAQ 6: How does smoking contribute to Tommy Shelby’s character development?
Smoking is an integral part of Tommy’s character. It underscores his brooding nature, his strategic mind, and his ability to withstand pressure. The deliberate act of lighting a cigarette often precedes crucial decisions or intense confrontations, highlighting his calculated approach to problem-solving.
FAQ 7: Is smoking portrayed positively or negatively in Peaky Blinders?
The show doesn’t explicitly promote or condemn smoking. It presents it as a realistic reflection of the time period and as a tool for character development. While the aesthetic appeal of the characters smoking is undeniable, the show also subtly portrays the potential negative consequences of their lifestyle through their overall health and well-being.
FAQ 8: Did other characters in Peaky Blinders smoke as frequently as Tommy?
Yes, smoking is prevalent among many of the main characters, including Arthur Shelby, Polly Gray, and John Shelby. This reinforces the social acceptance of smoking during that era and highlights its role as a common vice among the working class and those involved in criminal activities.
FAQ 9: Where would the Peaky Blinders source their tobacco?
The Peaky Blinders, given their criminal enterprise, could source their tobacco from various places. They might obtain it through smuggling, illicit trade, or from legitimate businesses that they control. Their access to illegal markets would provide them with a consistent supply, regardless of its origin.
FAQ 10: How does the depiction of smoking in Peaky Blinders compare to other historical dramas?
Peaky Blinders offers a particularly gritty and realistic portrayal of smoking compared to some other historical dramas. The focus is less on the glamorous aspects and more on the functional and symbolic role it plays in the characters’ lives. It emphasizes the raw and unfiltered nature of smoking during that time.
FAQ 11: Could the type of tobacco smoked by Tommy Shelby be linked to his social class?
Yes, the type of tobacco Tommy Shelby smokes is indeed linked to his social class. While specific brands are not named, his likely use of dark, strong, and unfiltered tobacco reflects the working-class preference for affordability and intensity. Finer, more expensive tobaccos would have been associated with the upper classes.
FAQ 12: What are some specific scenes where Tommy’s smoking is particularly significant?
There are countless scenes where Tommy’s smoking is significant. One notable example is the opening scene of Episode 1, where he’s seen meticulously rolling a cigarette before meeting with Inspector Campbell. This establishes his character’s cool demeanor and calculated approach. Another significant scene is when he smokes while contemplating difficult decisions, such as those involving his relationships or business dealings. These moments highlight the role of smoking as a conduit for his thoughts and emotions.
The Enduring Image of Smoke and Shadows
Thomas Shelby’s smoking habit is more than just a superficial detail. It’s a carefully crafted element that contributes to his mystique, provides insight into his inner turmoil, and anchors him firmly in the gritty reality of post-war Birmingham. It’s a visual shorthand that speaks volumes about his character and the world he inhabits, leaving a lasting impression long after the smoke clears.