Summary:
Candida is a play written by George Bernard Shaw in 1894. It is a comedy that explores themes of love, marriage, power, and gender roles. The story revolves around Candida, a strong and intelligent woman, her husband Reverend James Morell, a respected Christian Socialist clergyman, and Eugene Marchbanks, a young poet who falls in love with her.
Eugene believes that Candida deserves someone who truly worships her, unlike her husband, whom he sees as unworthy. However, Candida surprises both men when she reveals that the real power in their relationship lies with her. She chooses Morell, not because she is dependent on him, but because he needs her more than Eugene does.
The play challenges traditional gender roles, presenting Candida as the dominant figure in her marriage. It also critiques idealized notions of love and highlights the balance of power in relationships.
MCQs:
- Who wrote Candida?
A) Oscar Wilde
B) George Bernard Shaw
C) William Shakespeare
D) Henrik Ibsen
Answer: B) George Bernard Shaw - In which year was Candida published?
A) 1885
B) 1890
C) 1894
D) 1901
Answer: C) 1894 - What is James Morell’s profession?
A) A businessman
B) A poet
C) A politician
D) A clergyman
Answer: D) A clergyman
Candida - Who is Eugene Marchbanks?
A) A young poet in love with Candida
B) Candida’s brother
C) A rich nobleman
D) Morell’s assistant
Answer: A) A young poet in love with Candida - What does Eugene believe about Morell?
A) He is a loving husband
B) He does not deserve Candida
C) He is a great speaker
D) He is the perfect man
Answer: B) He does not deserve Candida - How does Candida view her marriage?
A) As a burden
B) As a relationship where she holds the real power
C) As a traditional marriage with a dominant husband
D) As a mistake
Answer: B) As a relationship where she holds the real power - Why does Candida choose to stay with Morell?
A) She is financially dependent on him
B) She believes he needs her more than Eugene does
C) She does not love Eugene
D) She is afraid of change
Answer: B) She believes he needs her more than Eugene does - What is the central theme of Candida?
A) The conflict between love and duty
B) The power dynamics in relationships
C) The role of women in society
D) The importance of religion
Answer: B) The power dynamics in relationships - What is Candida’s main characteristic?
A) Weak and submissive
B) Strong and independent
C) Shy and fearful
D) Arrogant and selfish
Answer: B) Strong and independent - What does Candida critique?
A) The role of religion in society
B) Idealized love and traditional gender roles
C) The corruption of politics
D) The importance of wealth
Answer: B) Idealized love and traditional gender roles
| Question | Answer |
| Play Name | Candida |
| Author | George Bernard Shaw |
| Year Published | 1894 |
| Main Themes | Love, marriage, gender roles, power dynamics |
| Literary Devices | Satire, irony, realism |
| Protagonist | Candida |
| James Morell’s Profession | Clergyman |
| Eugene’s Role | A poet in love with Candida |
| Message | Women often hold the real power in relationships, challenging traditional gender roles |