Showing results by author "Bernard Shaw" in All Categories

Misalliance, a captivating play by George Bernard Shaw from 1910, delves into the complex romantic dynamics of an eclectic group gathered at a wealthy mans country estate during a summer weekend. At the heart of the intrigue is Hypatia Tarleton, the hosts spirited daughter and a quintessential Shaw heroine, who embodies his belief that in the dance of courtship, women are the relentless pursuers while men are often hesitant. Hypatia is the daughter of the newly affluent John Tarleton, who amassed his fortune in the unremarkable yet profitable underwear industry. Growing weary of the rigid ...

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the American Revolution, Devils Disciple follows the rebellious Richard Dudgeon, who, disillusioned by his mothers strict religious fervor and the narrow-mindedness of his neighbors, boldly embraces the title of the devils disciple. He finds camaraderie among the towns outcasts and relishes in the discomfort of those around him, including the earnest minister Anthony Anderson and his unassuming wife, Judith. However, as the British Army, led by General Burgoyne, draws near in search of prominent rebels to punish, Richard, Anthony, and Judith confront a ...

In Fannys First Play, we meet Fanny, the spirited daughter of a Count, who has taken a bold step by penning her own play. With professional actors at her side and the eyes of prominent critics upon her, she chooses to keep her authorship a secret, fearing her fathers disapproval of the perceived vulgarity of modern life. Will Fannys daring endeavor succeed, or will her fathers traditional values overshadow her artistic ambitions? Join us for a captivating journey filled with wit, tension, and the struggle for creative freedom. - Summary by Michele Eaton

Pygmalion (1913) is a captivating play by George Bernard Shaw, inspired by the timeless Greek myth. It follows the transformative journey of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, as she becomes the subject of an audacious bet made by phonetics professor Henry Higgins. With the help of Colonel Pickering, Higgins is determined to refine Elizas speech and manners, aiming to pass her off as a lady of high society. As their relationship deepens, Eliza finds herself at a crossroads, ultimately choosing to reject Higginss controlling nature in favor of her own independence and love for Freddy ...

Mrs. Warrens Profession, a provocative play by George Bernard Shaw, first graced the London stage in 1902, only to be quickly banned after two performances due to its controversial themes. The story revolves around a former prostitute turned madam who grapples with her estranged daughter’s disapproval. Shaw compellingly argues that prostitution stems not from moral failings but from economic necessity, while also critiquing the hypocrisy of a society that profits from illicit trades yet condemns them. This tension between societal values and personal choices made the play a target for ...

In The Doctors Dilemma, we follow the story of Dr. Colenso Ridgeon, a recently knighted physician celebrated for his groundbreaking treatment for tuberculosis. As his friends gather to honor his achievement, he is confronted by two unexpected visitors who force him to face an agonizing choice. With only one vacancy left in his clinic, should he admit the brilliant yet morally bankrupt artist Louis Dubedat, or the humble and kind-hearted Dr. Blenkinsop? Dr. Ridgeons internal struggle deepens when he finds himself falling for Jennifer Dubedat, the innocent wife of the artist, who remains unaware...

Candida is a witty and thought-provoking comedy by the renowned playwright George Bernard Shaw, first published in 1898 as part of his collection, Plays Pleasant. The story revolves around clergyman James Morell, his spirited wife Candida, and the earnest young poet, Eugene Marchbanks, who seeks to capture her heart. Through this captivating narrative, Shaw challenges Victorian ideals of love and marriage, exploring the deeper desires of women in a patriarchal society. With Morell as a Fabian Socialist, Shaw seamlessly integrates the political climate of his time into the fabric of the play, ...

Arms and the Man is a witty comedy by George Bernard Shaw, first produced in 1894 and published in 1898. It has since earned its place as one of Shaws most beloved plays. With his characteristic sharpness, Shaw challenges the conventional ideals surrounding war and love, using satire to expose the myth of the brave soldier eager for battle. He cleverly illustrates that true character remains unchanged, whether one is in uniform or not, showing that a cautious soldier can be just as commendable as a reckless one. Join us as we unravel the hilarity and depth of this timeless masterpiece. - ...

Dive into the intriguing world of The Admirable Bashville, a thought-provoking exploration of copyright law as it applies to the stage and literature. In this satirical work by George Bernard Shaw, we witness how the current copyright system allows anyone to claim stage rights to a novel, regardless of its merit. Shaw, a passionate Socialist, critiques this system, suggesting that while he supports limited property rights, he finds it outrageous that someone could secure ownership over an authors work. This engaging narrative raises vital questions about authorship, property, and the rights of...

This captivating play explores the life of Candida, the wife of the renowned clergyman, Reverend James Mavor Morell. Morell, a popular Christian Socialist within the Church of England, owes much of his success to Candidas unwavering support. However, when she returns home from a trip to London accompanied by the young poet Eugene Marchbanks—who believes he can offer her a life beyond the confines of her mundane domesticity—the dynamics shift dramatically. Marchbanks is infatuated with Candida, viewing her as a divine figure deserving of more than mere complacency in her marriage. While ...

Enjoy the witty and satirical play "Arms and The Man" by George Bernard Shaw. This podcast brings to life a humorous and thought-provoking story that critiques romanticized views of war and heroism. Ideal for fans of classic theater and social commentary.

Immerse yourself in the brilliant wit and thought-provoking wisdom of playwright and critic George Bernard Shaw with this wondrous collection featuring 100 quotes that encapsulate Shaw's genius and his timeless relevance. From sharp social commentary to inspiring words on art, politics, and life, this collection is sure to captivate, challenge and inspire you.

Arms and the Man by George Bernard Shaw is a comedic play set during the Serbo-Bulgarian War. It follows the story of Raina, a young Bulgarian woman, who shelters a Swiss mercenary soldier named Captain Bluntschli. Unlike the romanticized ideals of war that Raina believes in, Bluntschli is practical, preferring food over bullets and questioning the glory of battle. As Raina's idealistic views are challenged, the play humorously critiques the absurdity of romanticized heroism and war. Meanwhile, a love triangle develops between Raina, her fiancé Sergius, and Bluntschli, revealing the ...

Dive into the dramatic depths of Don Juan in Hell, an excerpt from George Bernard Shaw‚s Man and Superman. Often presented as a standalone piece, this captivating scene brings together iconic characters from Mozart‚s Don Giovanni‚Don Juan, Dona Ana, and the statue of the Commendatore, her father. In the fiery realm of Hell, they are joined by the Devil himself, sparking a thought-provoking philosophical debate on topics like Heaven, Hell, love, and the complexities of marriage. Ultimately, they confront their destinies and decide where they will spend eternity. (Summary by Bob Neufeld)

George Bernard Shaw es un crítico musical irlandés, dramaturgo, ensayista, dramaturgo y guionista. Acerbo y provocador, pacifista y anticonformista, fue galardonado con el Premio Nobel de Literatura en 1925. Estas 100 citas pretenden dar acceso a su obra monumental a través de una selección de sus pensamientos más impactantes, en un formato accesible para todos. Una cita es más que un extracto de un discurso, puede ser un golpe de la mente, un resumen de un pensamiento complejo, una máxima, una apertura a una reflexión más profunda.

Children, if they are to grow up as citizens, must learn a good deal that their parents could not teach them even if they had the necessary time. The statesman must make provision for this teaching or he will presently find himself faced with the impossible task of maintaining civilization with savages instead of citizens

Henry Higgins, un profesor de fonética arrogante, apuesta que puede transformar a Eliza Doolittle, una vendedora de flores de baja clase con un acento grueso, en una dama de la alta sociedad mediante el refinamiento de su habla. A medida que Eliza se somete a esta metamorfosis, la obra despliega un agudo comentario sobre las rígidas estructuras de clase y el poder del lenguaje.