Major Barbara , a play by George Bernard Shaw published in 1905, follows the story of Major Barbara Undershaft, a young woman who joins the Salvation Army in London in order to help the impoverished. She soon discovers that her father, Andrew Undershaft, is a wealthy armaments manufacturer and realizes that he is the very source of the problems she is trying to solve. Barbara is forced to grapple with the moral implications of her father's business and her own ideals, ultimately coming to the conclusion that money and power are the greatest forces of good in society. George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) was a renowned Irish playwright, critic, and political activist. He was born in Dublin on July 26, 1856 and is best known for his witty and provocative plays such as Pygmalion , Saint Joan , and Major Barbara . He was a co-founder of the London School of Economics, a member of the Fabian Society, and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925. Throughout his life, Shaw was committed to causes such as universal suffrage, women's rights, and socialism. His plays often satirized social customs, and his political and social views are reflected in his works. He also wrote numerous articles and essays, as well as several books on politics, music, and literature. Shaw is often referred to as one of the greatest dramatists in English literature. His works are known for their sharp wit, clever wordplay, and criticism of social issues. Some of his most famous plays include Arms and the Man , Man and Superman , and Candida . He also wrote a number of musicals, such as The Chocolate Soldier and The Apple Cart . Shaw died in 1950 at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of great works and social activism. He is remembered for his thought-provoking plays, his commitment to progressive causes, and his indomitable spirit. He remains one of the most influential playwrights in English literature, and his works are still widely studied and performed today.