Press Cuttings By: Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)
Press Cuttings is a satirical play written by the renowned playwright Bernard Shaw that takes a witty look at the suffragette movement in early 20th century England. Set in a world where women temporarily gain control of the government, the play skillfully uses humor and clever dialogue to shed light on gender dynamics and societal expectations. The story follows the escapades of a suffragette named Mrs. Farrell, who not only fights for the rights of women but also for peace. Her character is brilliantly portrayed, showcasing her determination, intelligence, and undeniable charisma. Through her actions, Shaw challenges traditional gender roles and emphasizes the absurdity of a society that suppresses such capable individuals. One of the play's notable highlights is its use of newspaper clippings and headlines to portray the media's biased and often ridiculous treatment of the suffragette movement. Shaw masterfully crafts witty and sharp dialogues that expose the hypocrisy of the newspapers and the prejudiced views they perpetuate. This satirical aspect adds an additional layer of depth and amusement to the play. The supporting cast provides a balanced blend of comical characters and ones that highlight the deviousness of the political system. Shaw's portrayal of the politicians' reaction to the events unfolding around them is both amusing and thought-provoking, shedding light on the lengths people will go to maintain their power structures. Although the play primarily centers around the suffrage movement, it also touches upon other social and political themes, such as the arms race and the futility of war. Shaw ingeniously incorporates these elements into the narrative, providing a well-rounded commentary on the state of society at the time. A notable aspect of Press Cuttings is Shaw's skillful use of language and wordplay. The dialogue is quick, sharp, and filled with dry humor, which keeps the audience engaged and entertained throughout. Shaw's ability to intertwine serious subject matter with witty banter is a testament to his mastery as a playwright. Press Cuttings is a delightful and powerful work of satire that addresses important social issues. Shaw's ability to blend humor, social commentary, and thought-provoking dialogue make it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of gender and power in early 20th century society. It serves as a reminder that even in a seemingly lighthearted play, important messages and ideas can be conveyed with finesse. First Page: PRESS CUTTINGS Bernard Shaw 1913 TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE: The edition from which this etext was taken lacks contractions, so it reads dont for don't and Ill for I'll, for example. The play has been reproduced exactly as printed. The forenoon of the first of April, 1911. General Mitchener is at his writing table in the War Office, opening letters. On his left is the fireplace, with a fire burning. On his right, against the opposite wall is a standing desk with an office stool. The door is in the wall behind him, half way between the table and the desk. The table is not quite in the middle of the room: it is nearer to the hearthrug than to the desk. There is a chair at each end of it for persons having business with the general. There is a telephone on the table. Long silence. A VOICE OUTSIDE. Votes for Women! The General starts convulsively; snatches a revolver from a drawer, and listens in an agony of apprehension. Nothing happens. He puts the revolver back, ashamed; wipes his brow; and resumes his work. He is startled afresh by the entry of an Orderly. This Orderly is an unsoldierly, slovenly, discontented young man. MITCHENER. Oh, it's only you. Well? THE ORDERLY. Another one, sir. Shes chained herself. MITCHENER. Chained herself? How? To what? Weve taken away the railings and everything that a chain can be passed through... Continue reading book >>

Press Cuttings By: Bernard Shaw (1856-1950)

Press Cuttings is a satirical play written by the renowned playwright Bernard Shaw that takes a witty look at the suffragette movement in early 20th century England. Set in a world where women temporarily gain control of the government, the play skillfully uses humor and clever dialogue to shed light on gender dynamics and societal expectations.

The story follows the escapades of a suffragette named Mrs. Farrell, who not only fights for the rights of women but also for peace. Her character is brilliantly portrayed, showcasing her determination, intelligence, and undeniable charisma. Through her actions, Shaw challenges traditional gender roles and emphasizes the absurdity of a society that suppresses such capable individuals.

One of the play's notable highlights is its use of newspaper clippings and headlines to portray the media's biased and often ridiculous treatment of the suffragette movement. Shaw masterfully crafts witty and sharp dialogues that expose the hypocrisy of the newspapers and the prejudiced views they perpetuate. This satirical aspect adds an additional layer of depth and amusement to the play.

The supporting cast provides a balanced blend of comical characters and ones that highlight the deviousness of the political system. Shaw's portrayal of the politicians' reaction to the events unfolding around them is both amusing and thought-provoking, shedding light on the lengths people will go to maintain their power structures.

Although the play primarily centers around the suffrage movement, it also touches upon other social and political themes, such as the arms race and the futility of war. Shaw ingeniously incorporates these elements into the narrative, providing a well-rounded commentary on the state of society at the time.

A notable aspect of Press Cuttings is Shaw's skillful use of language and wordplay. The dialogue is quick, sharp, and filled with dry humor, which keeps the audience engaged and entertained throughout. Shaw's ability to intertwine serious subject matter with witty banter is a testament to his mastery as a playwright.

Press Cuttings is a delightful and powerful work of satire that addresses important social issues. Shaw's ability to blend humor, social commentary, and thought-provoking dialogue make it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of gender and power in early 20th century society. It serves as a reminder that even in a seemingly lighthearted play, important messages and ideas can be conveyed with finesse.

First Page:

PRESS CUTTINGS

Bernard Shaw

1913

TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE: The edition from which this etext was taken lacks contractions, so it reads dont for don't and Ill for I'll, for example. The play has been reproduced exactly as printed.

The forenoon of the first of April, 1911.

General Mitchener is at his writing table in the War Office, opening letters. On his left is the fireplace, with a fire burning. On his right, against the opposite wall is a standing desk with an office stool. The door is in the wall behind him, half way between the table and the desk. The table is not quite in the middle of the room: it is nearer to the hearthrug than to the desk. There is a chair at each end of it for persons having business with the general. There is a telephone on the table. Long silence.

A VOICE OUTSIDE. Votes for Women!

The General starts convulsively; snatches a revolver from a drawer, and listens in an agony of apprehension. Nothing happens. He puts the revolver back, ashamed; wipes his brow; and resumes his work. He is startled afresh by the entry of an Orderly. This Orderly is an unsoldierly, slovenly, discontented young man.

MITCHENER. Oh, it's only you. Well?

THE ORDERLY. Another one, sir. Shes chained herself.

MITCHENER. Chained herself? How? To what? Weve taken away the railings and everything that a chain can be passed through... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Play

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Wikipedia – Bernard Shaw
Wikipedia – Press Cuttings

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