Realism Versus Naturalism in Bernard Shaw’s Mrs. Warren’s Profession
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24086/cuejhss.v10n1y2026.pp130-136Keywords:
Shaw, Vivie, Mrs. Warren, Shaw, Vivie, Mrs. Warren, Naturalism, Realism, RealismAbstract
This study examines the critical ambivalence surrounding the classification of Mrs. Warren’s Profession within the frameworks of Realism and Naturalism, two dominant literary movements of the late nineteenth century. While George Bernard Shaw’s plays have been unpleasantly generated extensive debate, this particular play has attracted significant attention due to its complex treatment of
social issues, characterization, and dramatic technique. Critics remain divided over whether Shaw adopts a predominantly Realistic or Naturalistic approach in representing the causes and consequences of prostitution, class dynamics, and moral conflict. This study adopts a qualitative, analytical, and interpretive approach to examine the interplay between Realism and Naturalism in Mrs. Warren’s Profession by analyzing the play’s thematic structure, character development, and underlying social critique. The findings showed that Shaw deliberately integrates elements of both Realism and Naturalism, using each method to reinforce his role as a social reformer. Through this synthesis, Shaw not only exposes the socio-economic forces shaping individual choices but also emphasizes human agency and moral responsibility.
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