Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Biography of George Bernard Shaw:
George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950):
Early Life:
Birth: George Bernard Shaw was born on July 26, 1856, in Dublin, Ireland.
He was the third and youngest child of George Carr Shaw and Lucinda Gurly Shaw.
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| Biography of George Bernard Shaw |
Education and Early Career:
Shaw's formal education was limited, but he was an avid reader and largely self-taught.
He worked as a clerk in an estate agent's office and later as a critic before becoming a full-time writer.
George Bernard Shaw's Literary Career:
Shaw began his career as a music and theater critic, gaining attention for his wit and unique style.
His first plays were unsuccessful, but he gained prominence with "Arms and the Man" (1894) and "Candida" (1895).
Shaw's plays often explored social issues, challenging the norms of Victorian society.
Fabian Society:
Shaw was a member of the Fabian Society, a socialist organization advocating for social and economic reforms.
He believed in the gradual transition to socialism and contributed to the Fabian Essays.
Nobel Prize and Later Works:
Shaw was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Some of his notable works include "Pygmalion" (1913), which later inspired the musical "My Fair Lady," and the play "Saint Joan" (1923).
George Bernard Shaw's Activism:
Shaw was a strong advocate for women's rights and was actively involved in political and social issues.
He supported causes such as women's suffrage, vegetarianism, and anti-vivisection.
Personal Life:
Shaw married Charlotte Payne-Townshend in 1898, and they had a lasting partnership until her death in 1943.
Despite his marriage, Shaw had a complex relationship with prominent actress Ellen Terry.
Longevity and Death of George Bernard Shaw:
Shaw lived a long and active life, continuing to write well into his nineties.
He died on November 2, 1950, at the age of 94, in Ayot St Lawrence, Hertfordshire, England.
Legacy:
George Bernard Shaw is considered one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century.
His wit, humor, and keen social commentary influenced the theater and literature of his time.
Shaw's plays remain relevant and are still performed worldwide.
George Bernard Shaw's legacy extends beyond the stage; he was a prolific writer, critic, and social activist whose ideas continue to resonate in discussions about society, politics, and the human condition.