How do the writers of the Twentieth century use drama and poetry to comment on

social issues, discrimination, and injustices?

ID – 2232016
Course Code – ES 014
Course Name - Twentieth Century British Poetry and Drama
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Drama and poetry were strong ways for writers in the 20th century to speak out against social
problems, discrimination, and injustices at the time. This century they had big changes in
culture, politics, and society. There were two world wars, the civil rights movement, feminism,
and the rise of many new political and social ideas. In response to these problems, writers wrote
about them in their works, which shed light on the human situation and pushed for change.
Many authors adopted realism, presenting social issues and daily life in its unadulterated,
unpolished forms. Their goal was to bring to light the unpleasant facts of society, including
systematic inequalities, poverty, and class divides. Drama was utilized by playwrights such as
Henrik Ibsen (of "A Doll's House") and Arthur Miller (of "The Crucible") to question repressive
institutions and critique social standards. Poets and playwrights often addressed issues of
cultural heritage, ethnicity, and identity. During the Harlem Renaissance, Langston Hughes
championed African American culture in his writings, which made this especially clear.
Numerous authors from colonized areas used their writing to question the effects of colonialism
and regain their cultural identities. Authors of the 20th century faced society's biggest concerns
without hesitation. From the effects of colonialism (as in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart")
to women's problems (as in Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway" and Sylvia Plath's "The Bell
Jar"), they utilized their pens as powerful tools. Renowned playwrights, such as Lorraine
Hansberry ("A Raisin in the Sun"), explored the intricacies of intersectionality by giving
expression to individuals who were confronted with racism and misogyny." As in "The Waste
Land" by T.S. Eliot and "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett, covert critiques and hidden
meanings frequently emerged via allegory and symbolism. Writers can effectively and
carefully tackle sensitive topics via creativity. In a nutshell, these writers were not merely
fabricating stories; rather, they served as a reflection of society, inciting vital dialogues
regarding justice and the human condition through their craft. Their enduring relevance serves
as a reminder that literature continues to be a formidable catalyst for transformation.
"Saint Joan" is a dramatic work created by George Bernard Shaw in 1923, delving into the life
of Joan of Arc, a prominent historical figure of the 15th century. Although the play is situated
in a medieval setting, Shaw employed the character of Joan to critique many social concerns,
such as discrimination and injustices, that were widespread throughout the early 20th century.
Gender Roles and Discrimination:
Joan challenges societal expectations regarding women and conventional gender roles. She
assumes the leadership of an army and actively engages in political and military matters, which
were customarily regarded as spheres of influence for males at that era. In the early 20th
century, women were subjected to discrimination and restrictions, which Shaw criticizes
through the character of Joan. The play implies that women are equally capable of assuming
leadership and powerful roles as males.
Class Struggle:
Shaw was well-known for his socialist beliefs, and "Saint Joan" captures his anxieties about
social injustice and class conflict. The struggle between the ordinary people and the nobility is
shown in the play. Peasant Joan questions the privilege and power of the ruling class.
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Religious Intolerance:
The drama delves into the subjects of religious conflict and prejudice. Joan's prophetic visions
and her claims of being spiritually appointed resulted in her punishment by both the Church
and the governmental authority. Shaw used Joan's trial and death as a means to criticize the
misuse of religious authority and the absence of acceptance for other ideologies.
Nationalism and War:
The drama explores the consequences of nationalism and warfare. Joan's attempts to free
France from English control emphasize the negative effects of warfare and the exploitation of
patriotic emotions for political advantage. Shaw offers a critical analysis of the nationalistic
and aggressive sentiments that were widespread throughout the early 20th century and raises
doubts about the underlying reasons for engaging in armed engagements.
Individualism and Conformity:
Because of her independence and refusal to conform to the rules of society, Joan has become a
figure of nonconformity and resistance. Shaw utilizes the figure of Joan to challenge the
uniformity and lack of individual agency that he observed in society. He does this by urging
audiences to question authority and think independently.
Language and Communication:
In the play, Shaw makes some notable use of language. To communicate his thoughts, he makes
use of wit, satire, and a form of modern language. Shaw criticizes the limitations of language
to explain complicated ideas and the use of language by people in power to dominate narratives.
He does this through conversation and rhetoric.
"Saint Joan" is a complex piece that makes you think about the problems in society at the time
of Shaw and, by extension, the problems in society in general. Shaw challenges his readers to
rethink their views and question the systems that keep discrimination and injustice going
through the character of Joan and the events that happen in her life. "Saint Joan" by George
Bernard Shaw is a comment on the social problems, racism, and wrongdoings of his time. He
questions authority, challenges social norms, and criticizes different parts of early 20th-century
society through the character of Joan. This gives the audience a way to think about current
problems.