George Bernard Shaw's early forays into music and drama criticism provided a fertile ground for his later dramatic creations. Through his critiques, Shaw honed his understanding of narrative structure, character development, and social commentary. His engagement with these artistic forms allowed him to articulate his own ideas about drama with clarity and confidence, paving the way for his groundbreaking plays.

One of Shaw's most significant influences was Henrik Ibsen, from whom he learned the power of social realism and the importance of addressing societal issues through drama. Ibsen's focus on the complexities of human nature and societal flaws resonated with Shaw, who was inspired to integrate similar themes into his own works. This influence is evident in Shaw's ability to weave social critique seamlessly into the fabric of his plays.

Shaw's worldview was often infused with optimism regarding human potential and progress. Some might argue that this optimism verged on the excessive, as he held a steadfast belief in the capacity of individuals to rise above their circumstances through reason and will. This perspective is imbued in much of his writing, where characters frequently confront and overcome societal constraints.

The concept of Shaw’s Life Force plays a pivotal role in his work, particularly in the play Major Barbara. Here, the Life Force is depicted as a driving energy that compels characters towards growth and self-actualization. Shaw presents it as an intrinsic motivation that propels humanity forward, a force that challenges characters to grapple with moral and ethical dilemmas.

In Saint Joan, Shaw offers a nuanced view of religious duty, depicting it as a complex interplay between divine inspiration and individual conviction. Shaw presents Joan of Arc not merely as a religious martyr, but as a visionary driven by personal certainty and a deep sense of purpose. This portrayal invites audiences to contemplate the nature of faith and the individual’s role in interpreting divine will.

Finally, the transformation of Shaw's play Pygmalion into the musical My Fair Lady raises questions about fidelity to the original. While the musical captures the essence of Shaw’s characters and narrative arc, it softens the play's more biting social critiques. Some argue that the adaptation loses some of Shaw’s sharp commentary on class and social mobility, opting instead for a more romanticized, albeit entertaining, rendition.