G Bernard Shaw — Quintessence of Ibsenism

London , Walter Scott, 1891. First edition. Cloth. The first edition of this popular essay by George Bernard Shaw. Shaw championed Ibsen's plays when many theatregoers regarded him as outrageous. Therefore, his Quintessence of Ibsenism remained a classic throughout the 20th century. The essay provides an extended analysis of Ibsen's work, and the critical reception at the time. Shaw uses his examination of Ibsen to reflect on the imperfections of British society. He divides people into three categories, Philistines, Idealists and the Ione Realist. Shaw also discusses a subject recurrent in Ibsen's work, the strong character holding out against social hypocrisy. Ibsen was one of Shaw's main influences of his own work, and he sought to introduce a new realism into English-language drama. He used his plays to disseminate his political, social and religious ideals. In original cloth binding. Externally, smart with some rubbing and bumping to spine and extremities. Front hinge is slightly strained but firm. Prior owner's inscription to recto of front endpaper, A G Conrad Dec 1891. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright and clean throughout. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .