Summary:
Man and Superman is a play written by George Bernard Shaw in 1903. It is a philosophical comedy that explores themes of love, marriage, social expectations, and the concept of the “Superman,” inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche’s ideas. The play follows John Tanner, a radical thinker and confirmed bachelor, who is pursued by Ann Whitefield, a determined woman who aims to marry him despite his reluctance.
The play challenges traditional gender roles, portraying Ann as the true dominant force in romantic relationships, while Tanner represents intellectual resistance to societal norms. One of the most famous sections of the play is “Don Juan in Hell,” a dream sequence where philosophical debates take place about morality, free will, and human purpose.
Through satire and wit, Shaw critiques societal institutions like marriage and conventional morality, proposing that women drive human evolution by selecting strong, capable partners.
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| Question | Answer |
| Play Name | Man and Superman |
| Author | George Bernard Shaw |
| Year Published | 1903 |
| Main Themes | Love, marriage, social expectations, evolution, Nietzschean philosophy |
| Literary Devices | Satire, irony, philosophical debate |
| Protagonist | John Tanner |
| Famous Scene | “Don Juan in Hell” |
| Message | Women drive evolution by selecting strong partners; marriage is a social construct that benefits women more than men |