John Bull's Other Island   By: Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)

John Bull's Other Island by Bernard Shaw is a thought-provoking and insightful play that explores the complex relationship between Ireland and the United Kingdom. Shaw, known for his witty dialogue and humorous critique of society, creates a captivating story that delves into the clash of cultures and ideologies.

The play follows the character of Larry Doyle, an Irishman who returns to his homeland after living in London for several years. Shaw uses Larry as a representative of the conflicting perspectives between the Irish and the British, highlighting their differences in a satirical manner. Through Larry's interactions with various characters, such as Broadbent, a British businessman, and Father Keegan, a Catholic priest, the play presents contrasting viewpoints on topics such as politics, religion, and national identity.

One of the strengths of John Bull's Other Island lies in Shaw's ability to tackle serious issues with a touch of humor. His sharp wit and clever wordplay keep the audience engaged while offering a deeper commentary on the themes at hand. Shaw's use of irony and satire shines through as he exposes the hypocrisy and absurdity in both Irish and British attitudes.

Furthermore, the character development in this play is exceptional. Larry Doyle, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the story. His initial enthusiasm for the progress and modernization brought by the English gives way to a realization of the importance of preserving Irish traditions and values. This evolution reflects Shaw's belief in the necessity of self-discovery and the influence of one's environment.

While the play predominantly focuses on the Irish-British relationship, it also touches upon broader issues of colonization, imperialism, and nationalistic pride. Shaw tackles these weighty subjects with his trademark wit and insight, challenging the audience to question their own beliefs and biases.

However, some readers may find the play's lengthy dialogue and extensive debates tiresome. Shaw's tendency to use extensive conversations as a vehicle for delivering his ideas can be overwhelming at times. Nonetheless, for those willing to engage in intellectual discourse, John Bull's Other Island provides a wealth of material to ponder and reflect upon.

In conclusion, John Bull's Other Island is a brilliant play that stands as a testament to Shaw's ability to tackle complex topics with wit and humor. Shaw's exploration of the Irish-British relationship, alongside broader themes of nationalism and identity, make the play relevant and thought-provoking even today. Although the extensive dialogue may be overwhelming for some, the play's depth and satirical brilliance make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in exploring the dynamics between nations.

First Page:

Great George Street, Westminster, is the address of Doyle and Broadbent, civil engineers. On the threshold one reads that the firm consists of Mr Lawrence Doyle and Mr Thomas Broadbent, and that their rooms are on the first floor. Most of their rooms are private; for the partners, being bachelors and bosom friends, live there; and the door marked Private, next the clerks' office, is their domestic sitting room as well as their reception room for clients. Let me describe it briefly from the point of view of a sparrow on the window sill. The outer door is in the opposite wall, close to the right hand corner. Between this door and the left hand corner is a hatstand and a table consisting of large drawing boards on trestles, with plans, rolls of tracing paper, mathematical instruments and other draughtsman's accessories on it. In the left hand wall is the fireplace, and the door of an inner room between the fireplace and our observant sparrow. Against the right hand wall is a filing cabinet, with a cupboard on it, and, nearer, a tall office desk and stool for one person. In the middle of the room a large double writing table is set across, with a chair at each end for the two partners. It is a room which no woman would tolerate, smelling of tobacco, and much in need of repapering, repainting, and recarpeting; but this is the effect of bachelor untidiness and indifference, not want of means; for nothing that Doyle and Broadbent themselves have purchased is cheap; nor is anything they want lacking... Continue reading book >>