Candida

George Bernard Shaw's Candida remains a provocative comedy that challenges everything Victorian society believed about love, marriage, and desire. First published in 1898 as part of his acclaimed Plays Pleasant collection, this witty dramatic work centers on an unlikely romantic triangle: James Morell, an idealistic clergyman and Fabian Socialist; his seemingly content wife Candida; and Eugene Marchbanks, a passionate young poet determined to win her heart. But this is no simple love story. Shaw uses the central question—what does a woman truly want from her husband?—to deconstruct rigid social conventions and expose the hypocrisies lurking beneath respectable middle-class life. The playwright ingeniously weaves contemporary political issues into the narrative, reflecting his own socialist convictions while the characters debate duty, authenticity, and the nature of romantic fulfillment. What emerges is a sharp-eyed exploration of power dynamics within marriage that feels remarkably modern despite its late Victorian setting. The dialogue crackles with intelligence and humor, showcasing Shaw's gift for combining philosophical inquiry with theatrical entertainment. Candida is perfect for listeners who appreciate witty, intellectually engaging plays that question social assumptions and offer unexpected emotional depth. Whether you're discovering Shaw for the first time or revisiting this classic comedy, this audiobook delivers both the theatrical brilliance and the timeless human truths that have made Candida enduringly relevant.