The Six of Calais
The Six of Calais is a play by George Bernard Shaw, first performed in 1914. It tells the story of six French citizens who, in 1347, are chosen by King Edward III of England to be the first to cross the English Channel and enter the besieged city of Calais. The six are a cross-section of French society, from a nobleman to a peasant, and each has a different reason for wanting to make the journey. The play follows their journey and the events that unfold as they make their way to Calais. Along the way, they must face the dangers of the sea, the hostility of the English, and their own inner doubts and fears. The play is a powerful exploration of courage, loyalty, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is also a commentary on the futility of war and the importance of understanding and compassion between nations.
By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1934 · Genre: Drama, Historical Fiction, Romance · 4,580 words
First lines
A.D. 4th August 1347. Before the walls of Calais on the last day of the siege. The pavilion of Edward III, King of England, is on your left as you face the walls. The pavilion of his consort Philippa of Hainault is on your right. Between them, near the King's pavilion, is a two-seated chair of state for public audiences. Crowds of tents cover the background; but there is a clear way in the middle through the camp to the great gate of the city with its drawbridge still up and its flag still flying.
The Black Prince, aged 17, arrives impetuously past the Queen's tent, a groom running after him.
What this Textopian page supports
The Six of Calais is listed on Textopian as a play by George Bernard Shaw, dated 1934 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Play
- Author: George Bernard Shaw
- Date: 1934 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Historical Fiction, Romance, Comedy
- Length: 4,580 words
- Structure: 1 section, 202 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Six of Calais by George Bernard Shaw
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Drama — The Six of Calais is a play written by George Bernard Shaw, a renowned playwright, and is therefore classified as a drama.
- Historical Fiction — The Six of Calais is set in the 15th century and is based on a true story, making it a historical fiction.
- Romance — The Six of Calais features a romantic subplot between two of the characters, making it a romance.
- Comedy — The Six of Calais is a comedic play, featuring witty dialogue and humorous situations.
Tags
Edward Iii Plans To Hang The Burghers Of Calais · arms · burgesses · business · champagne · child · cold · dearest · dog · edward · eustache · gaunt