Enjoy the best George Bernard Shaw Quotes. Quotations by George Bernard Shaw (Playwright, Critic, Polemicist, Political Activist) Jul 26, 1856 - Nov 02, 1950
We don't grow older, we grow riper.
What is the use of writing plays, what is the use of writing anything, if there is not a will which finally moulds chaos itself into a race of gods?
The great advantage of a hotel is that it is a refuge from home life.
Life is not meant to be easy, my child; but take courage: it can be delightful.
Patriotism is your conviction that this country is superior to all other countries because you were born in it.
The only service a friend can really render is to keep up your courage by holding up to you a mirror in which you can see a noble image of yourself.
Better never than late.
Youth is wasted on the young.
I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community, and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.
The greatest of evils and the worst of crimes is poverty.
We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future.
The moment we want to believe something, we suddenly see all the arguments for it, andbecome blind to the arguments against it.
George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) was an Irish playwright, critic, and polemicist renowned for his wit, intelligence, and unyielding advocacy for social and political reform. With a prolific body of work that spans more than sixty years, Shaw left an indelible mark on the literary and theatrical landscape of the early 20th century.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Shaw grew up in a modest middle-class family. His education was irregular, but he developed a voracious appetite for reading and self-education, which served as the foundation for his intellectual prowess. Shaw began his career as a music and theater critic, where his sharp wit and incisive commentary garnered attention.
However, it was Shaw's foray into playwriting that catapulted him to international fame. His plays, characterized by their sharp dialogue, engaging characters, and exploration of social issues, challenged the conventional norms of the time. Notable works include "Pygmalion," "Man and Superman," and "Saint Joan," which earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Shaw's plays often tackled contentious topics, such as class struggle, women's rights, and capitalism, with biting satire and provocative insights. He used his plays as a platform for social criticism, weaving political and philosophical ideas into his narratives. Shaw believed in the power of art to challenge societal norms and provoke meaningful change, making him a prominent figure in the realm of social commentary.
Beyond his literary accomplishments, Shaw was an ardent socialist and a fervent advocate for various causes. He championed women's suffrage, advocating for gender equality long before it gained widespread acceptance. Shaw was also an early advocate for vegetarianism and promoted the idea of a meatless diet for ethical and health reasons.
His influence extended beyond the realm of theater, as Shaw was a prominent figure in public debates and political discourse. He engaged in spirited debates with contemporaries such as Winston Churchill and H.G. Wells, often challenging prevailing ideologies and advocating for progressive reforms.
George Bernard Shaw's impact on the literary world and society at large cannot be overstated. His sharp wit, uncompromising convictions, and literary prowess continue to inspire generations of artists, thinkers, and activists. Through his plays, essays, and speeches, Shaw sought to challenge the status quo, ignite critical thinking, and push for a fairer, more equitable world. Today, his legacy stands as a testament to the power of art, intellect, and activism in shaping the world we live in.