Two Plays for Puritans by George Bernard Shaw (1966 Heritage Press edition) presents Shaw’s provocative 1901 dramatic collection in a characteristically robust Heritage Press format. This volume contains three of Shaw’s most intellectually charged plays:
- The Devil’s Disciple (1897) – A revolutionary war melodrama subverting heroism tropes
- Caesar and Cleopatra (1898) – A witty anti-romantic take on ancient history
- Captain Brassbound’s Conversion (1899) – A morality play masquerading as adventure
The Heritage Press edition enhances Shaw’s biting social commentary with:
- Eric Gill’s original 1930s typography from the complete works edition
- Historical and critical preface by Shaw scholar Archibald Henderson
- Slipcased binding in hunter green buckram with gilt titling
- Eight photogravure plates capturing landmark productions
Published during the Vietnam War era, this 1966 reissue gained new relevance as Shaw’s critiques of blind patriotism and imperial ambition resonated with contemporary audiences. While lacking the elaborate illustrations of some Heritage Press editions, it compensates with superb textual authority – using the definitive Constable & Co. revised text with Shaw’s original stage directions and prefaces.
For collectors of dramatic literature, this volume pairs well with Heritage’s Shaw’s Saint Joan (1951) or their Ibsen collection. Compared to Easton Press editions, it offers superior editorial content though less decorative splendor.
