Man and Superman is a four-act play written by George Bernard Shaw in 1903. It is a philosophical comedy that follows the life of John Tanner, a wealthy, intellectual, and idealistic bachelor. The play begins with Tanner's friend, Jack Tanner, trying to convince him to marry Ann Whitefield, a young woman who is determined to marry him. Tanner is not interested in marriage, but he is intrigued by Ann's intelligence and wit. The second act follows Tanner's journey to Spain, where he meets a revolutionary, Don Juan, who is determined to overthrow the government. Don Juan's revolutionary ideas inspire Tanner to pursue his own ideals and to become a "superman" who will bring about a better world. The third act follows Tanner's return to England, where he meets Ann again and finally agrees to marry her. However, he is still determined to pursue his own ideals and to become a "superman." The fourth act follows Tanner's attempt to bring about a better world. He attempts to create a utopian society, but his plans are thwarted by the government and the people. In the end, Tanner is forced to accept that his dreams of a better world are impossible.
By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1903 · Genre: Drama, Romance, Philosophical Fiction · 5 chapters