Augustus Does His Bit By: Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)
Augustus Does His Bit by Bernard Shaw is a remarkable piece of literary work that takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of war and the human psyche. Spanning a myriad of themes, this play offers an insightful critique of society, patriotism, and the futility of war. One of the most striking aspects of this play is Shaw's masterful development of characters. The protagonist, Augustus Colpoys, is a lovable yet flawed character who embodies the absurdity and contradictions of war. Augustus's witty remarks and sarcastic humor provide both comic relief and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Shaw skillfully explores Augustus's struggles with identity, his sense of duty, and his unwillingness to conform to societal norms. The play's exploration of patriotism is another aspect that keeps readers engaged. Shaw challenges the unquestioning loyalty often associated with patriotism, shedding light on its potential dangers. By portraying characters such as Captain Flanagan, an eager and gullible soldier, and Mrs. Farrell, a free-spirited and independent woman, Shaw invites readers to question the motives behind blind patriotism and the sacrifices it demands. Furthermore, the play delves into the harsh realities of war and its devastating consequences. Shaw does not shy away from depicting the brutality and senseless destruction caused by conflict. Through powerful dialogue and dramatic scenes, the futility and absurdity of war are exposed, leaving readers with a profound sense of introspection. Another remarkable aspect of Augustus Does His Bit is Shaw's ability to seamlessly blend comedy and social commentary. The witty exchanges and satirical dialogue provide moments of levity, allowing readers to reflect on the more profound themes explored in the play. Shaw's unique writing style, with its sharp wit and clever wordplay, keeps readers enthralled from beginning to end. Despite its engaging content and thought-provoking themes, some readers may find the play's satirical tone and the heavy use of dialogue challenging to navigate. However, those willing to invest time and effort will be rewarded with a richly rewarding reading experience. Augustus Does His Bit is a thought-provoking exploration of war, patriotism, and the human condition. Bernard Shaw's skillful character development, witty dialogue, and sharp social commentary make this play a must-read for those interested in delving into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of blind allegiance. A truly enlightening piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers long after the final curtain call. First Page: AUGUSTUS DOES HIS BIT A TRUE TO LIFE FARCE By George Bernard Shaw I wish to express my gratitude for certain good offices which Augustus secured for me in January, 1917. I had been invited to visit the theatre of war in Flanders by the Commander in Chief: an invitation which was, under the circumstances, a summons to duty. Thus I had occasion to spend some days in procuring the necessary passport and other official facilities for my journey. It happened just then that the Stage Society gave a performance of this little play. It opened the heart of every official to me. I have always been treated with distinguished consideration in my contracts with bureaucracy during the war; but on this occasion I found myself persona grata in the highest degree. There was only one word when the formalities were disposed of; and that was "We are up against Augustus all day." The showing up of Augustus scandalized one or two innocent and patriotic critics who regarded the prowess of the British army as inextricably bound up with Highcastle prestige. But our Government departments knew better: their problem was how to win the war with Augustus on their backs, well meaning, brave, patriotic, but obstructively fussy, self important, imbecile, and disastrous. Save for the satisfaction of being able to laugh at Augustus in the theatre, nothing, as far as I know, came of my dramatic reduction of him to absurdity... Continue reading book >>

Augustus Does His Bit By: Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)

Augustus Does His Bit by Bernard Shaw is a remarkable piece of literary work that takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of war and the human psyche. Spanning a myriad of themes, this play offers an insightful critique of society, patriotism, and the futility of war.

One of the most striking aspects of this play is Shaw's masterful development of characters. The protagonist, Augustus Colpoys, is a lovable yet flawed character who embodies the absurdity and contradictions of war. Augustus's witty remarks and sarcastic humor provide both comic relief and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Shaw skillfully explores Augustus's struggles with identity, his sense of duty, and his unwillingness to conform to societal norms.

The play's exploration of patriotism is another aspect that keeps readers engaged. Shaw challenges the unquestioning loyalty often associated with patriotism, shedding light on its potential dangers. By portraying characters such as Captain Flanagan, an eager and gullible soldier, and Mrs. Farrell, a free-spirited and independent woman, Shaw invites readers to question the motives behind blind patriotism and the sacrifices it demands.

Furthermore, the play delves into the harsh realities of war and its devastating consequences. Shaw does not shy away from depicting the brutality and senseless destruction caused by conflict. Through powerful dialogue and dramatic scenes, the futility and absurdity of war are exposed, leaving readers with a profound sense of introspection.

Another remarkable aspect of Augustus Does His Bit is Shaw's ability to seamlessly blend comedy and social commentary. The witty exchanges and satirical dialogue provide moments of levity, allowing readers to reflect on the more profound themes explored in the play. Shaw's unique writing style, with its sharp wit and clever wordplay, keeps readers enthralled from beginning to end.

Despite its engaging content and thought-provoking themes, some readers may find the play's satirical tone and the heavy use of dialogue challenging to navigate. However, those willing to invest time and effort will be rewarded with a richly rewarding reading experience.

Augustus Does His Bit is a thought-provoking exploration of war, patriotism, and the human condition. Bernard Shaw's skillful character development, witty dialogue, and sharp social commentary make this play a must-read for those interested in delving into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of blind allegiance. A truly enlightening piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers long after the final curtain call.

First Page:

AUGUSTUS DOES HIS BIT

A TRUE TO LIFE FARCE

By George Bernard Shaw

I wish to express my gratitude for certain good offices which Augustus secured for me in January, 1917. I had been invited to visit the theatre of war in Flanders by the Commander in Chief: an invitation which was, under the circumstances, a summons to duty. Thus I had occasion to spend some days in procuring the necessary passport and other official facilities for my journey. It happened just then that the Stage Society gave a performance of this little play. It opened the heart of every official to me. I have always been treated with distinguished consideration in my contracts with bureaucracy during the war; but on this occasion I found myself persona grata in the highest degree. There was only one word when the formalities were disposed of; and that was "We are up against Augustus all day." The showing up of Augustus scandalized one or two innocent and patriotic critics who regarded the prowess of the British army as inextricably bound up with Highcastle prestige. But our Government departments knew better: their problem was how to win the war with Augustus on their backs, well meaning, brave, patriotic, but obstructively fussy, self important, imbecile, and disastrous.

Save for the satisfaction of being able to laugh at Augustus in the theatre, nothing, as far as I know, came of my dramatic reduction of him to absurdity... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Comedy
Literature
Play

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Wikipedia – Bernard Shaw
Wikipedia – Augustus Does His Bit

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