George Bernard Shaw

Definition

George Bernard Shaw was an influential Irish playwright, critic, and social activist known for his wit and keen insight into societal issues. His works often challenged social norms and explored themes of class struggle, gender equality, and the absurdities of human behavior, making significant contributions to the genre of comedy in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shaw was a co-founder of the London School of Economics and had a strong interest in social reform, often advocating for socialism in his writings.
2. His play 'Arms and the Man' critiques romantic notions of war and heroism, using humor to highlight the absurdities involved.
3. Shaw's witty dialogue and clever characterizations make his comedies both entertaining and thought-provoking, allowing audiences to reflect on societal issues.
4. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925 for his work that brought new forms of dramatic expression and addressed important social issues.
5. Shaw's influence extended beyond theatre; he was also a prolific critic and wrote extensively on various topics, including politics, economics, and the arts.

Review Questions

• How did George Bernard Shaw use comedy to address social issues in his plays?
  • Shaw employed comedy as a vehicle to critique social norms and injustices, allowing audiences to engage with serious themes in an accessible manner. His sharp wit and humor enabled him to tackle topics like class struggle and gender equality without alienating his audience. For example, in 'Pygmalion,' he used the transformation of Eliza Doolittle to highlight class distinctions while keeping the narrative light-hearted.
• Discuss how Shaw's political beliefs influenced his writing style and themes.
  • Shaw's strong socialist beliefs permeated his writing, shaping both his thematic focus and his theatrical approach. He often depicted characters that represented various social classes and used their interactions to critique capitalist society. His preference for intellectual engagement over emotional manipulation set him apart from other playwrights, leading to the development of the 'Theatre of Ideas,' where ideas were as important as the narrative itself.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of George Bernard Shaw on modern theatre and comedy.
  • George Bernard Shaw's impact on modern theatre is profound, as he redefined comedic storytelling by integrating sharp social critique into his plays. His approach challenged conventional dramatic forms, paving the way for future playwrights to explore complex themes within comedic frameworks. Additionally, his ability to intertwine humor with important societal questions continues to resonate in contemporary theatre, influencing modern comedians and playwrights who seek to provoke thought while entertaining their audiences.

Related terms

Socialism: A political and economic theory advocating for collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods.

Pygmalion: One of Shaw's most famous plays, which tells the story of a phonetics professor who transforms a lower-class flower girl into a refined lady, highlighting themes of class distinction and identity.

Theatre of Ideas: A theatrical movement associated with Shaw that emphasizes intellectual engagement over emotional appeal, often using comedy to provoke thought on serious societal issues.