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Audience Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“Just as the historian can teach no real history until he has cured his readers of the romantic delusion that the greatness of a queen consists in her being a pretty woman and having her head cut off, so the playwright of the first order can do nothing with his audience until he has cured them of…” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“Just as the historian can teach no real history until he has cured his readers of the romantic delusion that the greatness of a queen consists in her being a pretty woman and having her head cut off, so the playwright of the first order can do nothing with his audience until he has cured them of looking at the stage through the keyhole, and sniffing round the theatre as prurient people sniff round the divorce court.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

Source Play: Man and Superman, 1905

Historical and theatrical narratives must free audiences from romanticized myths to reveal deeper truths.

In simple terms: Free minds from romantic delusions.

Key Takeaway

Challenge conventional narratives.

Themes

art history theatre critical thinking

Mood

provocative intellectual

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • reading history
  • watching drama
  • educational workshops

Key Concepts

myth deconstruction audience engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does myth shape our perception?
  • What can theater teach about history?
A Different Perspective

Some may resist confronting uncomfortable truths.

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