Summary:
Mrs. Warren’s Profession is a play written by George Bernard Shaw in 1893. The play explores themes of poverty, morality, hypocrisy, and women’s independence. It tells the story of Vivie Warren, a well-educated and independent young woman, and her mother, Mrs. Kitty Warren, a former prostitute who became wealthy by running brothels.
Vivie, who has grown up without knowing the truth about her mother’s past, is shocked when she learns how Mrs. Warren made her fortune. The play highlights the limited opportunities available to women in Victorian society and criticizes the moral hypocrisy of a society that condemns prostitution while benefiting from it. Vivie ultimately rejects her mother’s money and chooses to be financially independent, symbolizing a new generation of women seeking self-respect and autonomy.
The play was controversial because it openly discussed prostitution and social injustice, making it one of Shaw’s most provocative works.

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Question | Answer |
Play Name | Mrs. Warren’s Profession |
Author | George Bernard Shaw |
Year Written | 1893 |
Main Themes | Social hypocrisy, women’s struggles, morality, independence |
Literary Devices | Satire, realism, irony |
Protagonist | Vivie Warren |
Mrs. Warren’s Business | Running brothels |
Vivie’s Decision | Rejects her mother’s wealth and chooses independence |
Message | Women’s lack of opportunities forces them into difficult choices, and society is hypocritical about morality |