Foreign Literature Studies ›› 2018, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (3): 67-76.

• Comparative Study of Chinese and Western Narrative Traditions • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The Ethical Tradition in Bernard Shaw's Theatrical Narrative

Liu Maosheng   

  • Online:2018-06-25 Published:2022-05-23
  • About author:Liu Maosheng is Ph.D. in English literature and professor of English at the Faculty of English Language and Culture, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (Guangzhou 510420, China). His research areas cover British and American Literature, narratology. Email: liumaosheng2004@126.com
  • Supported by:
    “The Ethical Expressions of Society and Politics: A Study on George Bernard Shaw's Plays” (14BWW049), sponsored by the National Social Science Fund of China; “A Comparative Study of Chinese and Western Narrative Traditions” (16ZDA195), sponsored by the National Social Science Fund of China

Abstract: Known as the master of problem plays, George Bernard Shaw relates his works to almost all aspects of social problems. Inheriting the Western theatrical tradition, Shaw seeks to write about social problems and deal with them from an ethical perspective. Social problems and ethical concerns constitute the kernels of his dramas. Taking Mrs. Warren's Profession, The Widower's Houses and Pygmalion as its central concern, this paper examines the interaction between morality and artistic pursuits in Shaw's works. Feeling obliged to conduct moral instruction, Shaw plays a significant role in enhancing the ethical tradition of the Victorian period.

Key words: Bernard Shaw, theatrical narrative, ethical tradition

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