The Devil's Disciple is a play by George Bernard Shaw, first performed in 1897. Set during the American Revolutionary War, the play follows the story of Richard Dudgeon, a local outcast who is mistaken for a rebel leader and is forced to take on the role of a martyr. The play begins in the small New England town of Dunbarton, where Richard Dudgeon is an outcast due to his rebellious nature and his refusal to conform to the town's strict religious beliefs. He is also known for his outspoken views on the American Revolution, which has caused him to be branded a traitor by the townspeople. Meanwhile, the British army is advancing on the town, and the local militia is preparing to fight them off. As the militia is about to leave, Richard is arrested and accused of being a rebel leader. He is sentenced to death, but his execution is delayed when a British officer, General Burgoyne, arrives and offers him a chance to save his life by pretending to be a rebel leader. Richard reluctantly agrees, and is taken to the rebel camp, where he is welcomed as a hero. He quickly becomes a symbol of the revolution, and is seen as a martyr by the rebels. However, his newfound fame is short-lived, as the British army soon arrives and captures the camp. In the end, Richard is able to escape and return to Dunbarton, where he is welcomed as a hero. He is also reunited with his beloved, Esther, who has been waiting for him all along. The play ends with Richard and Esther embracing, and the townspeople celebrating the victory of the American Revolution.
By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1897 · Genre: Drama, Satire, Historical Fiction · 3 chapters