Subject
World War, 1914-1918 -- Veterans -- Drama Books
Best books
Bernard Shaw
O'Flaherty V.C.: A Recruiting Pamphlet
"O'Flaherty V.C.: A Recruiting Pamphlet" by Bernard Shaw is a comic one-act play written in 1915 during World War I. An Irish soldier returns home after winning the Victoria Cross, only to face his Fenian mother's fury upon discovering he fought for the British. His materialistic girlfriend and domestic conflicts drive him to prefer the trenches over provincial Irish life. Shaw's anti-war satire tackles recruitment, patriotism, and Irish poverty, proving too controversial for wartime Dublin authorities who banned its performance.
Miles Malleson
The fanatics : $b A comedy in three acts
"The Fanatics: A Comedy in Three Acts" by Miles Malleson is a play written in the early 20th century. It explores complex themes of personal ambition, family tensions, and the search for meaning in a post-war society. The primary characters are Mr. Freeman, a concerned father, and his son John, who wrestles with his identity and aspirations against family expectations. The opening of the play introduces the Freeman family in their dining room, showcasing Mr. Freeman's growing concern over his son John, who is neglecting his work in favor of writing and music. As the family dynamic unfolds, we see John's struggles with his ambitions and relationships, particularly his engagement to Frankie. The dialogue reveals underlying tensions and hints at John's internal conflicts, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the clash between societal expectations and personal desires. This initial act sets a humorous yet poignant tone, inviting the audience to reflect on the nature of love, duty, and individual fulfillment.
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