Major Barbara (Magill Book Reviews)
At a glance:
- Author: George Bernard Shaw
- First Published: 1907
- Type of Work: Drama
- Genres: Drama, Problem play, Comedy
- Subjects: Social action, Twentieth century, Social issues, Poverty or poor people, England or English people, London, Reformers, Wealth, Salvation Army
- Locales: London, England, Middlesex, England
The play revolves around the contrast between the Salvation Army, aiming to save the souls of men and women by preaching humility and submission, and the weapons factory of Andrew Undershaft, which provides its workers with a realistic escape from what would otherwise be a dreary life of poverty. Ironically, the model city standing alongside stockpiles of explosive materials is of more tangible help to the poor than the ineffective charity and hope for the hereafter offered by the Salvation Army. In short, the poor are better served by jobs than by prayers.
Major Barbara,...
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See Also:
George Bernard Shaw (Censorship--Ready Reference series)George Bernard Shaw (Cyclopedia of World Authors)George Bernard Shaw (Dictionary of World Biography)George Bernard Shaw (Drama)
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