2. His Temperament and Its Influence on His Writings—Realism, originality, revolt against conventions, individualism, pessimism, irony. Views of woman. Is Ibsen critic or prophet?
3. Influence of Ibsen on Modern Drama—His technical skill, daring, problem plays. Are Ibsen's themes suited to the stage and the average audience? Should the theater preach or amuse, or both?
4. Study of Three Plays—Peer Gynt, The Pillars of Society, A Doll's House. Analysis of plot, description of chief characters, and readings.
5. Study of Three Plays—Ghosts, The Wild Duck, Hedda Gabler. Analysis of plot, description of chief characters, and readings.
Books to Consult—Brandes: Henrik Ibsen. Gosse: Ibsen. Bernard Shaw: Quintessence of Ibsenism. Moses: Ibsen, the Man and His Plays.
Ibsen takes a place to-day with the philosophers as well as the dramatists. In fact, the most interesting aspect of his work is his relation to social thinking and the revolt against conventions. It would be interesting to compare views on the points suggested. In what differing ways do Ibsen's plays affect the club members?
VIII—BERNARD SHAW AND THE IRISH MOVEMENT
1. Life of Bernard Shaw—Dublin. London. Beginning of serial novel-writing. Fabian Society. Help of William Archer. First play: Widowers' Houses. The Philanderers. Mrs. Warren's Profession (rejected by the censor).
2. Shaw's Successful Plays—Arms and the Man. (Mansfield's rendition. Musical version: The Chocolate Soldier.) Candida. You Never Can Tell. The Devil's Disciple. Captain Brassbound's Conversion. Man and Superman. Showing up of Blanco Posnet. Fanny's First Play.
3. Bernard Shaw's Qualities—His mannerisms and style. His attitude toward social conventions. His socialism. His attitude toward religion.