A political apostasy : George Bernard Shaw’s the apple cart as a play of ideas

Abstract EN

This study is an attempt to discuss Shavian drama (Mental Theatre) as a method to convey ideas.

The Drama of Ideas uses themes to challenge ingrained social norms.

It forces the audience to think and reconsider issues.

So, it has an inescapable place in contemporary drama.

It is not just about rendering laughter, but it is about inspiring thought as well.

Discussion is a fundamental feature of the Shavian drama since Gorge Bernard Shaw aspires to change and he tries to reform society.

He exposes reality and makes people recognise the actuality of issues that they face.

In light of this, Shaw’s comedy is known as the Comedy of Purpose as it repurposes the theatre of ideas into a new domain.

He is concerned with what makes a good government.

Shaw's political views are concentrating on economic aspects.

Thus, through The Apple Cart (1930), he hopes to establish a system of a government whereby the people choose their governors and are able to remove them when necessary.

He highlights the point that both democracy and hereditary monarchies fall short in that concern.

Bernard Shaw does not oppose democracy or monarchy but capitalism, which deactivates the process of social and economic advancement.

Consequently, Shaw hints through The Apple Cart, that the government, within a democratic framework is basically a cart that the prime minister employs for personal purposes.