Major Barbara book cover

Major Barbara

George Bernard Shaw · English text · 32,698 words

Major Barbara is a modern social drama about a Salvation Army officer who confronts the source of her family’s wealth and the limits of charitable idealism.

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Background

George Bernard Shaw uses lively debate and reversals to test whether moral work can remain pure inside an unequal economic system.

Reading notes

  • Follow how Barbara’s definition of useful work changes.
  • Compare Andrew Undershaft’s arguments with the consequences of his business.
  • Notice where the play lets practical outcomes challenge moral slogans.