Major Barbara takes place in the middle of a period of great change for Great Britain. The playwright, George Bernard Shaw, lived during a time where he and other artists were exploring new ground and moving the theater forward with new ideas about the world around them. The monarchy experienced its first change in six decades and a period of great wealth had an undercurrent of uncertainty. People revolted, women began the Suffrage movement and wanted rights, and poverty was crippling the nation. The Salvation Army became a beacon of hope to the people of London, while the Second Boer War took a mighty blow against the once invincible British Empire. The characters in Major Barbara reflect the turmoil of these times with their own sins and triumphs, as they seek repentance and redemption within their family infrastructure. Great Britain during 1906 was truly hoped framed in war, as the prospects from the Industrial Revolution and the constant threat of war conflicted with the characters own morals and religious beliefs.
Feel free to explore this website to learn more about Major Barbara. If you have any questions, please contact the dramaturge through the Dramaturgy Contact page.
Feel free to explore this website to learn more about Major Barbara. If you have any questions, please contact the dramaturge through the Dramaturgy Contact page.