Dimensions
129 x 198 x 13mm
An authoritative student guide.
"In what appears deceptively like a social comedy, Shaw asks us to consider the tension between religion and rationality, the high price of morality and how it is to be paid." The Times. Major Barbara is one of Shaw's most serious and important plays. The story of the contest between the arms manufacturer Andrew Undershaft and his daughter, the Salvation Army Major Barbara, is a provocative discussion between money, power and moral purpose. Students will find a wealth of information to guide their studies: an extended introduction exploring theatrical and historical context, critical reactions, background on the author and stage history. It also includes Shaw's original Preface, and the play itself contains numerous notes and explanations throughout to aid the student's understanding. Shaw's changes of mind during composition, particularly in relation to the crucial final scene, which he entirely re-wrote will also be covered.
