The Portable Bernard Shaw : Book Review

"The Portable Bernard Shaw" is a captivating collection of George Bernard Shaw's most important works, offering readers a comprehensive glimpse into the brilliant mind of this esteemed playwright, critic, and social commentator. This anthology presents some of Shaw's most renowned plays, such as "Pygmalion," "Major Barbara," and "Saint Joan," alongside a selection of his influential critical essays and thought-provoking letters.

Shaw's writing is remarkable in its ability to seamlessly blend wit and humor with profound social and political commentary. Through his plays, he fearlessly tackles pressing issues of his time, including class divisions, gender roles, and the role of art in society. These themes come to life through vivid characters and sharp dialogue, making Shaw's works both engaging and thought-provoking.

Beyond his plays, the anthology also showcases Shaw's critical essays, which provide further insight into his thoughts on a range of topics, from Shakespeare and morality to socialism and economics. These essays demonstrate Shaw's sharp intellect and analytical skills, while also revealing his unique perspective on the world around him.

Moreover, the inclusion of Shaw's letters in "The Portable Bernard Shaw" adds a personal touch to the collection, granting readers a glimpse into the mind of the man behind the words. His letters offer a deeper understanding of his motivations and beliefs, highlighting his unwavering dedication to challenging societal norms and advocating for change.

Overall, "The Portable Bernard Shaw" is an exceptional compilation of George Bernard Shaw's works, offering readers a comprehensive overview of his immense talent and intellectual prowess. Whether you are a fan of Shaw's plays or interested in exploring his thought-provoking essays, this anthology provides a rich and rewarding reading experience.

What are readers saying?

"The Portable Bernard Shaw" by George Bernard Shaw has received a range of reviews, offering diverse opinions from readers. The general consensus is that Shaw's work is intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking, although some individuals found his writing style to be challenging.

Numerous reviewers appreciated the wide range of topics covered in the book, praising Shaw's wit and cleverness. They found his essays and plays engaging and admired his ability to address complex social and political issues. Many readers mentioned that Shaw's writings provoked them to reflect on their own beliefs, increasing their appreciation for his work.

However, some readers struggled with Shaw's writing style, describing it as dense and difficult to follow. These individuals had difficulty connecting with his ideas and staying engaged. Additionally, some readers felt that Shaw's works were overly focused on intellectual discussions and lacked emotional depth.

One common theme throughout the reviews was the admiration for Shaw's sharp sense of humor. Readers consistently praised the book for its wit and cleverness, noting that Shaw's humor added an enjoyable layer to his otherwise weighty topics.

A few reviewers mentioned that the book lacked organization, making it challenging to navigate through the various essays and plays. They desired a more cohesive structure to enhance their reading experience.

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